according to

preposition

1

: in conformity with

2

: as stated or attested by

3

: depending on

Examples of according to in a Sentence

According to rumors I've heard, he was fired for stealing from the company.

She always did everything according to the rules.

I cooked the rice according to the directions on the box.

He was paid according to how quickly he worked.

Recent Examples on the Web

Most taxpayers in the United States can request a six-month extension to file their tax returns, according to the IRS. —Sacbee.com, 7 Apr. 2026

The extraordinary review of a media outlet’s coverage, revealed in emails obtained by The Star, is unheard of in Kansas City politics, according to one former mayor. —Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 7 Apr. 2026

Jackson logged over 120 snaps on defense last year, according to Pro Football Focus, with his role increasing each week. —Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Apr. 2026

The settlement, proposed by Hartford Insurance, would only be provided once the archdiocese decides on a reorganization plan, according to the attorneys representing some survivors. —Jt Moodee Lockman, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English acordyng to, from acordyng "agreeing" (from present participle of accorden "to accord entry 1") + to to entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for according to

• hullabaloo
• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup

Kids Definition

according to

preposition

1

: in agreement with

did everything according to the rules

2

: as stated by

according to the experts

3

: depending on

dress according to the weather