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According to: meaning, definitions and examples

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according to

 

[ əˈkɔːrdɪŋ tə ]

Preposition / Adverb
Oxford 3000
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?

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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?

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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

Translations of the word "according to" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de acordo com

🇮🇳 के अनुसार

🇩🇪 laut

🇮🇩 menurut

🇺🇦 згідно з

🇵🇱 zgodnie z

🇯🇵 によると

🇫🇷 selon

🇪🇸 según

🇹🇷 göre

🇰🇷 에 따르면

🇸🇦 وفقًا لـ

🇨🇿 podle

🇸🇰 podľa

🇨🇳 根据

🇸🇮 glede na

🇮🇸 samkvæmt

🇰🇿 сәйкес

🇬🇪 მიხედვით

🇦🇿 görə

🇲🇽 según

Etymology

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.