according
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
The weather forecast states that it will rain tomorrow.
as stated by someone or something; in agreement with
According to the report, the company's profits increased by 15%.
The report states that the company's profits increased by 15%.
According to the manual, you should charge the device for 2 hours.
The manual states that you should charge the device for 2 hours.
Used to cite a source or reference. Often followed by 'to'.
in proportion; correspondingly
The rewards will be distributed according to effort.
Rewards will be given in proportion to the effort put in.
Used to indicate a proportional relationship.
Collocations
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Remember the 'to'
The word 'according' is almost always followed by 'to' when used to cite a source or reference (e.g., 'According to the news...').
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Use 'according to' to cite a source or reference. Use 'according' alone to indicate proportionality (e.g., 'The prizes will be awarded according to merit').
Word Origin
From Middle English 'acordynge', present participle of 'acorden' (to agree), from Old French 'acorder' (to reconcile), from Latin 'accordare' (to be in harmony), from 'ad-' (to) + 'cor' (heart).
Usage Notes
Always followed by 'to' when used in the sense of 'as stated by'. In the sense of 'in proportion', it is often followed by a noun or noun phrase.