Another Way To Say According

Beyond "According To": A Comprehensive Guide to Expressing Agreement and Attribution

Finding the right way to express agreement or attribution can significantly impact the clarity and style of your writing. While "according to" is a common choice, relying on it repeatedly can make your writing monotonous and less engaging. This comprehensive guide explores a wealth of alternatives, categorized for easy understanding and application, helping you elevate your writing to a more sophisticated and nuanced level. We'll delve into synonyms, phrases, and clauses, examining their subtle differences in meaning and appropriate contexts. This will equip you with a robust vocabulary to express agreement and attribution effectively and avoid repetitive phrasing.

I. Understanding the Nuances of Attribution

Before diving into alternatives, it's crucial to understand the various nuances of attribution. Simply stating that information comes from a source isn't always sufficient. The choice of wording should reflect the level of certainty, the nature of the source, and the overall tone of your writing. For instance, attributing something to a highly respected expert demands a different phrasing than attributing it to an anonymous online source.

Consider these factors when selecting your phrasing:

• Certainty: Are you absolutely certain of the information's accuracy? Or is it a possibility, a suggestion, or an interpretation?
• Source Credibility: Is the source an authoritative figure, a peer-reviewed study, a reputable organization, or an anecdotal account?
• Tone: Is your writing formal, informal, academic, or journalistic? The appropriate phrasing will vary depending on the context.

II. Synonyms and Near-Synonyms for "According To"

Let's start with direct synonyms and phrases that convey a similar meaning to "according to":

• As stated by: This phrase is suitable for formal writing and emphasizes the directness of the statement. Example: As stated by the professor, the exam will be held next week.
• As per: This is a slightly more formal and concise alternative, often used in official documents or business communications. Example: As per the company policy, all employees must submit their timesheets by Friday.
• In accordance with: This phrase emphasizes compliance or conformity to a rule, regulation, or guideline. Example: In accordance with the health regulations, masks are required indoors.
• Pursuant to: Similar to "in accordance with," but often used in legal or official contexts. Example: Pursuant to the contract, payment is due within 30 days.
• Based on: This phrase highlights the evidence or data supporting a statement. Example: Based on the latest research, the drug shows promising results.
• Following: A simpler alternative suggesting a sequence of events or actions. Example: Following the announcement, the stock price surged.

III. Phrases Emphasizing Different Aspects of Attribution

The following phrases offer more nuanced ways to attribute information, depending on the context and the emphasis you want to convey:

• In the words of: This phrase directly quotes the source, highlighting their exact phrasing. Example: In the words of the Nobel laureate, "Science is a process of continuous questioning."
• To quote: Similar to "in the words of," it introduces a direct quotation. Example: To quote the author, "The book explores the intricacies of human relationships."
• Drawing on: This phrase implies that the information is derived from multiple sources or a broader body of work. Example: Drawing on numerous historical accounts, the historian constructed a compelling narrative.
• Referencing: This indicates that the information is supported by a specific source, often used in academic writing. Example: Referencing the latest scientific literature, the authors concluded that...
• Citing: Similar to "referencing," but often used to specifically mention a particular source in a bibliography or footnote. Example: Citing the work of Dr. Smith, the team proceeded with their experiment.
• Derived from: This implies that the information is extracted or obtained from a specific source. Example: The data derived from the survey suggest a significant trend.
• Building upon: This phrase suggests that the information extends or expands on previous work. Example: Building upon previous research, the scientists made a breakthrough discovery.

IV. Expressing Agreement with Different Degrees of Certainty

Sometimes, attributing information also involves expressing a degree of agreement or certainty. Here are some ways to achieve this:

• It is suggested that: This phrase conveys a degree of uncertainty or speculation. Example: It is suggested that the climate change is contributing to the increased frequency of extreme weather events.
• It is believed that: Similar to "it is suggested that," but implies a stronger level of belief, often based on evidence or common understanding. Example: It is believed that early intervention is crucial for successful treatment.
• It is estimated that: This phrase is used when dealing with approximate figures or predictions. Example: It is estimated that over 50% of the population owns a smartphone.
• It appears that: This indicates an observation based on available evidence, suggesting a certain level of probability. Example: It appears that the economy is showing signs of recovery.
• It seems that: This is a less formal version of "it appears that," suggesting a weaker degree of certainty. Example: It seems that the new policy is having a positive impact.

V. Formal vs. Informal Alternatives

The formality of your writing greatly influences the appropriate phrasing. Here's a comparison:

Formal:

• As per the regulations…
• Pursuant to the agreement…
• In accordance with established procedures…
• Based on empirical evidence…
• Referencing the aforementioned study…

Informal:

• The study says…
• The book mentions…
• Experts say…
• People believe…
• It looks like…
• They think…

VI. Using Clauses for More Complex Attribution

For more complex attributions, using clauses can provide greater clarity and precision:

• The report, which was published last year, states that… This clause provides additional context about the source.
• The study, conducted by a team of leading scientists, concluded that… This highlights the credibility of the source.
• As the research indicates, the results were significant. This emphasizes the connection between the research and the results.

VII. Avoiding Repetitive Phrasing

To avoid monotonous repetition, vary your sentence structure and the language you use to attribute information. Don't just alternate between a few synonyms; instead, explore the different options we've discussed to find the most suitable phrasing for each context. For instance, you can begin some sentences with the attribution phrase, and others by placing it mid-sentence or at the end.

VIII. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What's the best way to choose an alternative to "according to"?

A: The best alternative depends on the context. Consider the level of certainty, the source's credibility, and the overall tone of your writing. Use the categorization in this guide to find the phrase that best suits your needs.

Q: Is it okay to mix formal and informal phrasing?

A: It's generally best to maintain a consistent level of formality throughout your writing. Mixing formal and informal language can sound jarring and unprofessional.

Q: How can I avoid sounding overly academic or technical?

A: While some phrases are more formal, you can avoid sounding overly technical by using clear and concise language, and by providing context where needed. Remember your audience and their level of understanding.

Q: Can I use multiple attribution phrases in one paragraph?

A: Yes, but make sure they flow naturally and don't interrupt the readability of your text. Too many attribution phrases can make your writing feel disjointed.

IX. Conclusion

Mastering the art of attribution involves more than simply finding synonyms for "according to." It requires a nuanced understanding of the context and the desired effect. By exploring the diverse options presented in this guide, you can significantly enrich your writing, making it more engaging, precise, and sophisticated. Remember to choose your phrases carefully, considering the credibility of your source, the degree of certainty, and the overall tone of your writing. Practice using these alternatives in your own work to develop a more versatile and effective writing style. With careful consideration and practice, you'll confidently navigate the world of attribution, ensuring clarity and precision in your communication.