according

Accordinging is a form of the verb accord that is most commonly used in the fixed phrase “according to.” In modern usage, it functions to attribute information to a source or to indicate conformity with a standard. The word appears as part of a prepositional construction rather than as a standalone adjective or adverb in most contexts.

Etymology and form: According derives from Old French accord (“agreement”) and from Latin accordare, meaning to bring into agreement. The present participle form “according” developed in English as part of the construction that introduces a source, rule, or standard, as in according to the report.

Usage: The primary use of “according to” is to introduce what someone else has said or what a document or rule specifies. It signals attribution rather than independent assertion. For example, “According to the spokesperson, the project is on schedule.” It can also introduce a condition or standard, as in “The actions were taken according to policy.”

Differences and alternatives: In formal or legal writing, “in accordance with” is often preferred to convey strict conformity to rules or standards. Informal or shorthand contexts may use “as per” or simply rely on the source without the prefatory phrase, depending on style guidelines.

Examples: “According to the latest census, the population has grown.” “According to plan, the shipment should arrive next week.” “The company acted according to policy.” See also: accord, accordance, in accordance with, as per, per.

Overall, according is primarily a function word used to attribute statements or to indicate conformity, with its core meaning anchored in agreement and source-based reporting.