According to Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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according to

[əˈkɔːrdɪŋ tə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Preposition}

in relation to

Used to indicate someone's opinion or belief. It is also used to refer to a particular source.

Synonyms

as per, based on, in accordance with.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
according to	This phrase is typically used to reference someone's statement, opinion, or a source of information. It often introduces the source of information in reports and articles. According to the weather forecast, it's going to rain tomorrow. According to John, the meeting has been rescheduled.
as per	This expression is more formal and is often used in professional or official settings. It indicates conformity to a predetermined plan, agreement, or standard. We will proceed with the project as per the contract. As per your instructions, I have completed the task.
in accordance with	This phrase is formal and used in legal, official, or technical documents to indicate compliance with rules, laws, or guidelines. In accordance with company policy, all employees must wear ID badges. The company operates in accordance with international standards.
based on	This phrase is used when a conclusion or opinion is derived from certain information or criteria. It emphasizes that the subsequent statement is dependent on the preceding data. The movie is based on a true story. The decision was made based on the available evidence.

Examples of usage

I will make the decision according to the rules.
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

as stated by

In agreement with what has been said or stated by someone else.

Synonyms

as per, as stated by, in accordance with.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
according to	Used when citing someone's words or information from a specific source. According to John, the meeting is scheduled for 10 AM. According to the weather forecast, it's going to rain tomorrow.
as stated by	Formal and specific context, used to directly quote or refer to something mentioned by an authority or document. As stated by the CEO, the company will be expanding its operations. As stated by the health department, regular exercise is beneficial for heart health.
as per	Formal context, often used in business or legal settings to follow a stated guideline or instruction. As per the contract, you are required to deliver the goods by the end of the month. As per company policy, all employees must wear ID badges.
in accordance with	Very formal context, typically used in legal, regulatory, or official documents to ensure compliance with rules, laws, or guidelines. In accordance with federal regulations, all employees must undergo safety training. The plan was approved in accordance with the city council's guidelines.

Examples of usage

He is, according to his friends, a great cook.
The movie was, according to critics, a masterpiece.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

'According to' is often used in reporting speech, helping clarify who made a statement.
It introduces quotes and citations, playing a vital role in academic and formal writing.
The phrase can also create a comparative structure, for example, 'According to X, Y differs from Z.'

Literature

In literature, 'according to' sets an authoritative tone, lending credibility to character perspectives.
Authors often use the phrase to establish common beliefs or societal norms within the narrative.

Media

In journalism, the phrase is crucial for distinguishing between direct quotes and paraphrased information.
It encourages the practice of fact-checking by clearly attributing views to their original sources.

Philosophy

The phrase raises discussions about subjective versus objective truths, especially in ethics and epistemology.
Philosophers argue how different perspectives, introduced with 'according to', shape our understanding of truth.

Origin of 'according to'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'according to' comes from the Latin word 'accordare', meaning to agree or be in harmony.
It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century, often to attribute statements to sources.

The phrase 'according to' originates from Middle English and has been in use since the 14th century. It is derived from the combination of the preposition 'according' and the preposition 'to'. Over the centuries, it has evolved to become a commonly used phrase in the English language, indicating a reference to a source or opinion.