The phrase “according to” is widely used to reference sources, facts, or opinions in writing and speech. Whether you’re citing a report, quoting someone, or presenting findings, it’s a reliable expression. However, overusing it can make your content repetitive and flat. Fortunately, there are many strong alternatives that allow you to attribute information more effectively and with varied tone and style.
In this article, you’ll discover 25 alternatives to “according to,” each clearly explained with its meaning, a detailed explanation, a usage example, where it’s best used, and the tone it conveys. These options will improve your writing, make your citations more dynamic, and enhance your communication across academic, professional, and creative contexts.
1. As Stated By
Meaning:
Used to reference something someone has said or written directly.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase is formal and clear. It works well when attributing a direct quote or paraphrased statement. It emphasizes that the information is not your own but has been clearly expressed by another source.
Scenario Example:
As stated by the CEO, the company plans to expand internationally next year.
Best Use:
Formal writing, business reports, academic references.
Tone:
Professional, respectful, precise.
2. As Reported By
Meaning:
Indicates that information has been shared or published by a source.
Detailed Explanation:
This alternative is excellent for news and media citations. It implies the information has been broadcast or published, giving it a slightly journalistic tone.
Scenario Example:
As reported by The Financial Times, inflation rates are beginning to decline.
Best Use:
News articles, journalism, formal essays.
Tone:
Credible, informative, formal.
3. Based On
Meaning:
Used to indicate that something derives from a particular source or information.
Detailed Explanation:
“Based on” works when your statement results from data, research, or facts. It’s logical in tone and commonly found in analytical writing or reporting.
Scenario Example:
Based on recent survey results, customers prefer eco-friendly packaging.
Best Use:
Data analysis, presentations, research-based writing.
Tone:
Neutral, factual, analytical.
4. Citing
Meaning:
Used to directly mention a source when quoting or paraphrasing.
Detailed Explanation:
“Citing” makes the reference feel more academic or official. It is direct and often appears in formal research or legal contexts.
Scenario Example:
Citing the World Health Organization, the report recommends increased vaccination efforts.
Best Use:
Academic writing, research papers, legal documents.
Tone:
Formal, scholarly, authoritative.
5. As Mentioned In
Meaning:
Used to point out that something was discussed in a source.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase is helpful when you want to show the information was brought up or touched upon in a report, article, or conversation. It’s less assertive than a direct quote.
Scenario Example:
As mentioned in the meeting notes, the deadline remains unchanged.
Best Use:
Meeting recaps, internal communication, casual documentation.
Tone:
Neutral, clear, slightly informal.
6. As Per
Meaning:
Used to formally state something in accordance with a rule, source, or document.
Detailed Explanation:
Often used in legal or business contexts, “as per” adds formality. It implies compliance with guidelines or instructions.
Scenario Example:
As per the agreement, payment must be made within 30 days.
Best Use:
Legal documents, contracts, formal communication.
Tone:
Official, precise, formal.
7. In the Words Of
Meaning:
Directly attributes a quote or thought to a person.
Detailed Explanation:
This is a storytelling-style attribution. It adds color and context, especially when emphasizing the exact phrasing used by the speaker.
Scenario Example:
In the words of Maya Angelou, “Nothing will work unless you do.”
Best Use:
Quotes in essays, speeches, inspirational writing.
Tone:
Emotional, expressive, respectful.
8. As Observed By
Meaning:
References someone’s personal observations or findings.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase is useful when the source has directly experienced or monitored something. It lends credibility from firsthand knowledge or expertise.
Scenario Example:
As observed by the lead researcher, the experiment produced consistent results.
Best Use:
Scientific studies, field reports, research papers.
Tone:
Insightful, formal, factual.
9. According To the Findings Of
Meaning:
Refers to the results of a study or analysis.
Detailed Explanation:
This is a more specific version of “according to,” focused on research and data. It adds authority and clarity when summarizing conclusions.
Scenario Example:
According to the findings of the 2024 market study, digital trends are reshaping retail.
Best Use:
Reports, white papers, case studies.
Tone:
Professional, data-driven, detailed.
10. Per
Meaning:
A concise way to indicate something comes from a specific source or instruction.
Detailed Explanation:
“Per” is more commonly used in internal communication, legal, or corporate language. It’s efficient and sharp, but should be used sparingly in casual contexts.
Scenario Example:
Per your request, we’ve added the updated budget sheets.
Best Use:
Business communication, legal notes, internal memos.
Tone:
Concise, formal, procedural.
11. As Indicated By
Meaning:
Shows that something was signaled or pointed out by a source.
Detailed Explanation:
This version sounds slightly more formal and analytical. It suggests the source revealed or pointed to the information subtly or through evidence.
Scenario Example:
As indicated by recent sales numbers, customer loyalty is increasing.
Best Use:
Marketing reports, financial analysis, academic papers.
Tone:
Professional, analytical, reserved.
12. From the Perspective Of
Meaning:
Shows information as seen or interpreted by someone.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase makes it clear that the statement is subjective. It’s useful when acknowledging opinion or viewpoint.
Scenario Example:
From the perspective of the design team, user experience needs further testing.
Best Use:
Team feedback, opinion pieces, human-centered writing.
Tone:
Thoughtful, subjective, respectful.
13. As Communicated By
Meaning:
Refers to information shared by someone through formal or informal means.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrasing works well in business and organizational settings. It conveys that the message was passed along with intent.
Scenario Example:
As communicated by the HR department, remote work will continue through August.
Best Use:
Internal announcements, corporate communication.
Tone:
Formal, informative, respectful.
14. As Highlighted In
Meaning:
Used when a source brings special attention to something.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase indicates that a particular point or insight was emphasized in the original material. It’s often used to reference key takeaways.
Scenario Example:
As highlighted in the report, customer retention has improved by 18%.
Best Use:
Business summaries, reports, slide decks.
Tone:
Focused, analytical, businesslike.
15. Based Upon the Statement Of
Meaning:
Indicates that the information is derived from someone’s specific words.
Detailed Explanation:
This is formal and direct, often used in legal or structured documents. It distances the writer from the content, attributing it fully to the source.
Scenario Example:
Based upon the statement of the witness, the investigation is ongoing.
Best Use:
Legal writing, official reports, investigations.
Tone:
Detached, factual, professional.
16. As Quoted In
Meaning:
Refers to a direct quotation from a source.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase is commonly used when citing a published article, book, or interview. It ensures accuracy and transparency when using someone else’s words.
Scenario Example:
As quoted in Forbes, “The tech industry is on the brink of disruption.”
Best Use:
Publications, citations, media writing.
Tone:
Accurate, respectful, polished.
17. In Reference To
Meaning:
Connects the current statement to a previous document, idea, or source.
Detailed Explanation:
This expression helps maintain context and is often used when continuing a thought from a source. It’s formal and useful in business settings.
Scenario Example:
In reference to your earlier email, we’ve revised the timeline.
Best Use:
Formal emails, memos, official replies.
Tone:
Polite, structured, formal.
18. As Noted In
Meaning:
Refers to information already recorded or stated elsewhere.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase is helpful when reinforcing or repeating something mentioned previously. It signals agreement or confirmation of existing material.
Scenario Example:
As noted in the annual report, revenue doubled last quarter.
Best Use:
Reports, presentations, summaries.
Tone:
Professional, reaffirming, factual.
19. By the Account Of
Meaning:
Attributes information to someone’s personal description or narrative.
Detailed Explanation:
This variation feels more narrative and works well in storytelling or testimonial-style content. It implies subjectivity and individual experience.
Scenario Example:
By the account of several attendees, the event was a major success.
Best Use:
Narratives, personal stories, informal reports.
Tone:
Descriptive, subjective, human.
20. Following the Guidance Of
Meaning:
Implies action based on advice or instruction from someone.
Detailed Explanation:
This is useful when referencing expert opinion or policy direction. It positions the source as a guide or authority.
Scenario Example:
Following the guidance of our legal counsel, we’ve updated the terms and conditions.
Best Use:
Advisory writing, corporate policy, compliance updates.
Tone:
Respectful, structured, formal.
21. As Shared By
Meaning:
Points to information that was passed along by a source.
Detailed Explanation:
This variation is less rigid and can be used in informal communication. It suggests the information came through open communication.
Scenario Example:
As shared by the project manager, testing begins next week.
Best Use:
Team updates, internal communications, messaging.
Tone:
Casual-professional, warm, practical.
22. In Accordance With
Meaning:
Refers to something done in compliance with rules, laws, or guidance.
Detailed Explanation:
This is a highly formal version, often used in legal and official writing. It implies strict alignment with documented standards.
Scenario Example:
In accordance with company policy, all absences must be reported in writing.
Best Use:
Policies, legal documents, regulations.
Tone:
Formal, strict, legalistic.
23. On the Authority Of
Meaning:
Indicates that the source has the power or credibility behind the statement.
Detailed Explanation:
This version is useful when referencing experts or authoritative bodies. It emphasizes that the source is reliable and respected.
Scenario Example:
On the authority of the Board, we’ve implemented the new strategic plan.
Best Use:
High-level communication, official decisions.
Tone:
Strong, official, formal.
24. According to Records
Meaning:
Specifies that the source is documented or archived.
Detailed Explanation:
This is commonly used when referring to written or digital evidence. It gives weight to your statement by grounding it in hard records.
Scenario Example:
According to records from 2022, enrollment increased by 12%.
Best Use:
Audits, data analysis, historical reference.
Tone:
Precise, factual, formal.
25. Drawing from
Meaning:
Indicates that the information or insight is pulled from a source.
Detailed Explanation:
This phrase feels more literary and reflective. It’s perfect for content that blends facts with interpretation, and offers stylistic elegance.
Scenario Example:
Drawing from historical examples, the book argues that peace is possible.
Best Use:
Essays, literature, reflective writing.
Tone:
Creative, analytical, elegant.
Conclusion
The phrase “according to” may be common, but it doesn’t have to be your only choice. These 25 alternatives help you match your tone, respect the formality of the situation, and keep your language fresh and clear. Whether you’re writing a report, delivering a presentation, or quoting research—there’s a better fit than repeating the same old phrase.
