Finding the right words matters when we want to express ourselves in a way that feels warm, thoughtful, and kind. Sometimes, saying “according to” can feel a little too formal, distant, or even cold. The good news? There are so many alternatives that sound more personal, gentle, and conversational. In this guide, we’ll explore 30 different ways to say “according to” with definitions, tones, best uses, and real-life examples to help you communicate with more care and connection.
What Does “According To” Mean?
The phrase “according to” is often used to refer to a source of information, authority, or opinion. For example, we say: “According to the report, sales increased last year.”
It works well in formal contexts, but sometimes it can sound too stiff or impersonal, especially in casual conversations, emails, or empathetic messages. That’s why finding alternatives that fit your tone is so helpful.
When to Use “According To”
- When citing facts, reports, or data.
- When you want to attribute ideas to a specific source.
- When clarity and neutrality matter.
Example: “According to the doctor, rest is the best treatment.”
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “According To”?
Yes, “according to” is professional and polite, especially in academic, legal, or formal work. However, it may sound robotic or distant in personal messages. If you want to show empathy, care, or friendliness, choosing another phrase often works better.
Pros and Cons of Using “According To”
Pros:
- Clear and direct
- Works in professional and academic writing
- Easy to understand
Cons:
- Can sound formal or cold
- May feel overused
- Lacks emotional warmth
Synonyms For “According To”
- As stated by
- As mentioned by
- As pointed out by
- On the authority of
- Based on what … said
- By the words of
- In the opinion of
- As reported by
- As highlighted by
- In the words of
- Drawing from
- In light of what … said
- Referring to
- With reference to
- As observed by
- From the perspective of
- Based on the insights of
- As confirmed by
- In accordance with
- Guided by
- As suggested by
- As indicated by
- As expressed by
- In the view of
- As documented by
1. As Stated By
Meaning: Refers directly to what someone has already said.
Definition: A respectful way to highlight another person’s words.
Tone: Formal, professional, neutral.
Explanation: Slightly softer than “according to,” but still carries professionalism.
Example: “As stated by the manager, the deadline remains unchanged.”
Best Use: Professional reports, workplace communication.
When Not to Use: Casual settings where it might feel too rigid.
2. As Mentioned By
Meaning: Draws attention to a specific point that was raised earlier.
Definition: A friendly acknowledgment of another’s contribution.
Tone: Warm, conversational, respectful.
Explanation: Great for showing you were listening and giving credit.
Example: “As mentioned by Sarah, we’ll meet at 5 PM for dinner.”
Best Use: Work meetings, group discussions, emails.
When Not to Use: Formal academic or legal writing.
3. As Pointed Out By
Meaning: Highlights an observation someone has made.
Definition: A gentle way to emphasize another’s perspective.
Tone: Appreciative, conversational.
Explanation: Works well when you want to show care and recognition.
Example: “As pointed out by my colleague, teamwork is the key to success.”
Best Use: Team settings, casual-professional conversations.
When Not to Use: Hard data or research citations.
4. On the Authority Of
Meaning: A strong statement backed by an official source.
Definition: Signals credibility and power.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
Explanation: Suitable when a decision or fact comes from a high-level source.
Example: “On the authority of the city council, the park will remain closed.”
Best Use: Legal, medical, or government documents.
When Not to Use: Informal or casual conversations.
5. Based On What … Said
Meaning: Connects information directly to a person’s statement.
Definition: Conversational way to attribute a message.
Tone: Warm, casual, friendly.
Explanation: Helps you sound approachable while giving credit.
Example: “Based on what the coach said, practice will start earlier.”
Best Use: Everyday conversations, casual emails.
When Not to Use: Formal or academic writing.
6. By the Words Of
Meaning: Refers to the actual phrasing or wisdom shared by someone.
Definition: A poetic and gentle way of giving credit to a speaker or writer.
Tone: Inspirational, thoughtful, respectful.
Explanation: This works beautifully in writing where you want to highlight the beauty of someone’s expression, such as literature, speeches, or motivational quotes.
Example: “By the words of Nelson Mandela, courage is not the absence of fear—it’s inspiring others despite it.”
Best Use: Storytelling, motivational messages, speeches.
When Not to Use: Business reports or formal academic writing.
7. In the Opinion Of
Meaning: Signals that what follows is someone’s personal view, not a universal fact.
Definition: Useful for separating facts from subjective thoughts.
Tone: Neutral, polite, professional.
Explanation: This phrase creates space for interpretation and acknowledges differing viewpoints.
Example: “In the opinion of the designer, brighter colors will improve the project’s appeal.”
Best Use: Debates, reviews, feedback.
When Not to Use: Presenting hard data or verified research.
8. As Reported By
Meaning: Cites information that has been published or officially recorded.
Definition: A reliable way to reference journalism, media, or reports.
Tone: Professional, neutral, trustworthy.
Explanation: Strong choice when you want to emphasize credibility and objectivity.
Example: “As reported by the local news, road repairs will begin next week.”
Best Use: Articles, formal emails, media references.
When Not to Use: Informal conversations or personal letters.
9. As Highlighted By
Meaning: Draws attention to a specific insight or focus point made by someone.
Definition: Acknowledges emphasis or importance given by another.
Tone: Respectful, positive, attentive.
Explanation: Great for showing that someone’s observation stood out.
Example: “As highlighted by our mentor, patience is key to long-term success.”
Best Use: Work presentations, coaching, teaching.
When Not to Use: Legal or strictly factual reports.
10. In the Words Of
Meaning: Directly quoting or echoing how someone expressed something.
Definition: Adds warmth by focusing on personal expression.
Tone: Inspirational, thoughtful.
Explanation: Perfect when you want to make a quote feel personal and meaningful.
Example: “In the words of my grandmother, kindness costs nothing but means everything.”
Best Use: Quotes, speeches, personal stories.
When Not to Use: Technical or statistical writing.
11. Drawing From
Meaning: Suggests you are taking inspiration or information from a source.
Definition: A softer and more creative alternative to “according to.”
Tone: Warm, reflective, flexible.
Explanation: Works when you’re blending personal experience with another’s knowledge.
Example: “Drawing from the author’s insights, we can see how resilience shapes success.”
Best Use: Essays, creative writing, coaching.
When Not to Use: Legal documents or strict reports.
12. In Light Of What … Said
Meaning: Refers to considering information shared earlier.
Definition: Suggests reflection and thoughtful response.
Tone: Caring, considerate, professional.
Explanation: Balances respect with open-mindedness, good for thoughtful conversations.
Example: “In light of what the counselor said, we should prioritize rest.”
Best Use: Guidance, coaching, reflective discussions.
When Not to Use: Quick, casual chats.
13. Referring To
Meaning: Indicates direct connection to a statement or idea.
Definition: Clear, simple way to show attribution.
Tone: Neutral, professional.
Explanation: Very straightforward, often used when clarity matters.
Example: “Referring to the survey, most people prefer online learning.”
Best Use: Reports, business communication, presentations.
When Not to Use: Emotional or personal writing where warmth is needed.
14. With Reference To
Meaning: A formal way to direct attention toward a source or subject.
Definition: Professional and often used in correspondence.
Tone: Formal, respectful, polite.
Explanation: Common in letters and workplace documents.
Example: “With reference to your earlier message, we have updated the schedule.”
Best Use: Emails, formal letters, official reports.
When Not to Use: Friendly chats, casual notes.
15. As Observed By
Meaning: Credits someone for noticing or identifying something.
Definition: Respectful and shows attention to detail.
Tone: Appreciative, observant.
Explanation: Emphasizes observation and awareness.
Example: “As observed by the teacher, students learn better with visuals.”
Best Use: Feedback, evaluations, discussions.
When Not to Use: Formal reports citing hard facts.
Read More:30 Other Ways to Say ‘You Look Handsome’ (With Examples)
16. From the Perspective Of
Meaning: Acknowledges someone’s viewpoint.
Definition: Useful for recognizing different experiences or outlooks.
Tone: Respectful, inclusive.
Explanation: Shows empathy and an openness to diversity of thought.
Example: “From the perspective of a parent, the policy could be improved.”
Best Use: Discussions, debates, inclusive communication.
When Not to Use: Purely factual contexts.
17. Based On the Insights Of
Meaning: Draws from thoughtful or expert guidance.
Definition: Adds depth by emphasizing wisdom or learning.
Tone: Appreciative, respectful, thoughtful.
Explanation: Stronger than just citing facts—it highlights understanding.
Example: “Based on the insights of our mentor, consistency leads to growth.”
Best Use: Professional growth, coaching, essays.
When Not to Use: Strict academic writing.
18. As Confirmed By
Meaning: Used when information has been verified or validated.
Definition: Stronger than “according to” because it signals reliability.
Tone: Firm, credible, professional.
Explanation: Ideal when you want to emphasize that something is proven.
Example: “As confirmed by the doctor, recovery will take two weeks.”
Best Use: Reports, professional communication, medical/legal contexts.
When Not to Use: Personal conversations, casual chats.
19. In Accordance With
Meaning: Means “in agreement with” or “following the guidance of.”
Definition: Very formal and precise.
Tone: Formal, legal, professional.
Explanation: Often used in contracts, policies, or regulations.
Example: “In accordance with company policy, holidays must be requested in advance.”
Best Use: Legal documents, policies, official reports.
When Not to Use: Personal or informal messages.
20. Guided By
Meaning: Suggests direction or influence from someone’s words.
Definition: Gentle and supportive alternative.
Tone: Warm, caring, respectful.
Explanation: Reflects learning or growth from another’s guidance.
Example: “Guided by her advice, I decided to take the new opportunity.”
Best Use: Personal growth stories, coaching, leadership messages.
When Not to Use: Strict academic or technical reports.
21. As Suggested By
Meaning: Acknowledges someone’s advice or proposal.
Definition: Shows openness to guidance.
Tone: Polite, considerate.
Explanation: Perfect when you want to honor a helpful recommendation.
Example: “As suggested by our trainer, let’s start with small steps.”
Best Use: Professional advice, teamwork, recommendations.
When Not to Use: Academic or legal contexts where suggestion is irrelevant.
22. As Indicated By
Meaning: Shows something has been pointed out or made evident.
Definition: Professional and factual.
Tone: Neutral, credible.
Explanation: Works well when citing evidence or data.
Example: “As indicated by the chart, sales increased steadily.”
Best Use: Reports, business presentations, academic writing.
When Not to Use: Friendly chats or personal writing.
23. As Expressed By
Meaning: Credits someone’s unique way of communicating an idea.
Definition: Emphasizes tone, style, or feeling of a message.
Tone: Warm, respectful.
Explanation: Great for honoring someone’s words or phrasing.
Example: “As expressed by Maya, love is a journey of patience.”
Best Use: Storytelling, literature, motivational writing.
When Not to Use: Legal or technical documents.
24. In the View Of
Meaning: Shares someone’s viewpoint or outlook.
Definition: A softer alternative for highlighting perspectives.
Tone: Polite, professional, neutral.
Explanation: Often used to avoid making an absolute statement.
Example: “In the view of the experts, prevention is better than cure.”
Best Use: Discussions, essays, respectful debates.
When Not to Use: Statements of fact that require certainty.
25. As Documented By
Meaning: Refers to something that has been recorded in writing or official sources.
Definition: Strong and formal, emphasizes evidence.
Tone: Professional, reliable.
Explanation: Great for referencing research, history, or records.
Example: “As documented by historians, the event changed the course of the nation.”
Best Use: Research papers, reports, historical references.
When Not to Use: Everyday or casual conversations.
Conclusion
Finding the right alternative to “according to” can make all the difference in how your message is received. Some phrases sound professional and credible, while others feel warm, conversational, and empathetic. By choosing the right wording, you not only convey information clearly but also show that you care about tone, respect, and connection.
Whether you’re writing an email to a colleague, a speech to inspire, or a personal note to a friend, these 30 thoughtful alternatives give you the flexibility to express yourself in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Remember, words carry weight—and the right ones can leave a lasting impression.
FAQs About Saying “According To”
1. Is it okay to use “according to” in professional writing?
Yes, it is absolutely fine. It’s clear, neutral, and professional. But if you want to sound less rigid and more personable, try softer alternatives like “as mentioned by” or “as suggested by.”
2. What is the most polite way to say “according to”?
Polite alternatives include “as noted by” or “in the opinion of.” These show respect without being too stiff.
3. Can I use these alternatives in academic writing?
Yes, but choose carefully. For academic or research papers, stick with more formal options like “as documented by,” “as indicated by,” or “in accordance with.”
4. Which alternative is best for casual conversations?
For casual chats, use friendly choices like “based on what … said” or “as pointed out by.” These feel natural and warm.
5. Why should I use alternatives instead of always saying “according to”?
Using alternatives helps you add variety, warmth, and clarity to your communication. It makes your words feel more thoughtful and personal, which builds trust and connection.
