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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For the 18-month moratorium, Webb is listed as the sponsor, according to board meeting materials. — Joseph Flaherty, Arkansas Online, 4 Aug. 2026 The arrest took place Sunday at an Embassy Suites, located in the 3400 block of International Boulevard in Hapeville, according to local reports. — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Aug. 2026 Five clubs, Inter Miami, home of superstar Lionel Messi, LAFC, the LA Galaxy, Atlanta United and NYCFC are valued at over $1 billion, according to Forbes. — Anne M. Peterson, Chicago Tribune, 4 Aug. 2026 Businessman Perry Johnson has loaned his campaign more than $30 million, according to Michigan campaign finance records. — ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for according to

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of according to was in the 14th century

Rhymes for according to

See All Rhymes for according to

Browse Nearby Words

accordingly
according to
according to one's lights
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“According to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/according%20to. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on according to

Nglish: Translation of according to for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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