When we want to express an idea or opinion that is based on a source, we often use the phrase “according to.” However, there are times when we want to vary our language and find alternative ways to convey the same meaning. Luckily, the English language offers us a rich array of synonyms and expressions that can help us achieve this goal.
One way to replace “according to” is to use the phrase “as per.” This expression is commonly used in formal contexts, such as legal documents or business correspondence, to indicate that something is done in accordance with a particular rule or regulation. For example, instead of saying “according to the company policy, you need to submit your report by Friday,” you could say “as per the company policy, you need to submit your report by Friday.”
Another option is to use the phrase “in line with.” This expression emphasizes the idea of conformity or alignment with a particular standard or principle. For instance, instead of saying “according to the latest research, this diet is effective for weight loss,” you could say “in line with the latest research, this diet is effective for weight loss.” This phrasing suggests that the research is a benchmark or guideline that the diet follows.
What Is Another Way to Say According To
1. As per
2. In accordance with
3. Following
4. In line with
5. Pursuant to
6. Based on
7. In conformity with
8. In keeping with
9. In agreement with
10. In compliance with
1. As per
This phrase means “in accordance with” or “according to.” It is often used in formal or legal contexts to indicate that something is being done according to a specific set of rules or guidelines.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “as per” when referring to a specific set of instructions or guidelines that must be followed. For example, a contract might state that payment is due “as per the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement.”
Example: As per the company policy, all employees are required to attend a safety training session before starting work.
2. In accordance with
This phrase means “in agreement with” or “in conformity with.” It is often used in formal or legal contexts to indicate that something is being done in accordance with a specific rule or standard.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “in accordance with” when referring to a specific law or regulation that must be followed. For example, a company might state that all hiring decisions must be made “in accordance with federal anti-discrimination laws.”
Example: In accordance with the terms of the lease, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in good condition.
3. Following
This phrase means “after” or “in the aftermath of.” It is often used to describe a sequence of events or actions that occur in a specific order.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “following” when referring to a specific event or action that has already taken place. For example, a company might state that it will review all resumes “following the application deadline.”
Example: Following the completion of the project, the team celebrated their success with a dinner party.
4. In line with
This phrase means “consistent with” or “in agreement with.” It is often used to describe a course of action that is in keeping with a particular set of values or principles.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “in line with” when referring to a specific set of values or principles that must be upheld. For example, a company might state that all business practices must be “in line with our commitment to sustainability.”
Example: The new policy is in line with the company’s mission to provide affordable healthcare to all patients.
5. Pursuant to
This phrase means “in accordance with” or “following.” It is often used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that something is being done in accordance with a specific law or regulation.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “pursuant to” when referring to a specific law or regulation that must be followed. For example, a company might state that it will provide certain benefits “pursuant to the Affordable Care Act.”
Example: Pursuant to the court order, the defendant must pay restitution to the victim.
6. Based on
This phrase means “derived from” or “founded on.” It is often used to describe a decision or action that is based on a specific set of facts or information.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “based on” when referring to a specific set of facts or information that has been used to make a decision. For example, a company might make a hiring decision “based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.”
Example: The report’s findings are based on extensive research conducted over a period of six months.
7. In conformity with
This phrase means “in agreement with” or “in accordance with.” It is often used in formal or legal contexts to indicate that something is being done in accordance with a specific rule or standard.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “in conformity with” when referring to a specific law or regulation that must be followed. For example, a company might state that all financial records must be kept “in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.”
Example: The construction project was completed in conformity with all local building codes and regulations.
8. In keeping with
This phrase means “consistent with” or “in agreement with.” It is often used to describe a course of action that is in keeping with a particular set of values or principles.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “in keeping with” when referring to a specific set of values or principles that must be upheld. For example, a company might state that all marketing materials must be “in keeping with our commitment to honesty and transparency.”
Example: The new product design is in keeping with the company’s reputation for innovation and creativity.
9. In agreement with
This phrase means “in accordance with” or “in conformity with.” It is often used in formal or legal contexts to indicate that something is being done in accordance with a specific rule or standard.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “in agreement with” when referring to a specific law or regulation that must be followed. For example, a company might state that all employees must sign a confidentiality agreement “in agreement with company policy.”
Example: The project was completed in agreement with the client’s specifications and requirements.
10. In compliance with
This phrase means “in accordance with” or “following.” It is often used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that something is being done in accordance with a specific law or regulation.
It is most appropriate to use the phrase “in compliance with” when referring to a specific law or regulation that must be followed. For example, a company might state that all products must be labeled “in compliance with federal labeling requirements.”
Example: The company’s hiring practices are in compliance with all applicable anti-discrimination laws.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding alternative phrases to replace “according to” can add variety and clarity to your writing. Some options include “as stated by,” “based on,” “in accordance with,” and “in keeping with.” These phrases can help to avoid repetition and make your writing more engaging.
Furthermore, using alternative phrases can also help to convey a sense of authority and credibility in your writing. By using a variety of sources and phrases, you can demonstrate that you have done your research and are presenting a well-rounded perspective.
In summary, while “according to” may be a commonly used phrase, there are many other options available that can enhance your writing. Experiment with different phrases and find the ones that work best for you and your writing style. By doing so, you can improve the flow, clarity, and overall impact of your writing.