Definitions Related words Phrases Mentions Lyrics History

Literary notes about According (AI summary)

In literature, the phrase “according to” is commonly used as a means of attributing authority, clarifying perspective, or delineating standards. Authors employ it to reference established opinions or sources—as seen when an action is justified or explained by external factors. For instance, in historical and religious texts, “according to” introduces accounts or interpretations by respected authorities, such as in [1] where behavior “according to the spirit” conveys a moral standard, or in [2] where a military report is presented “according to General Otis’s report.” Its function extends beyond mere citation; it helps structure arguments by linking statements to external evidence or rules, as noted in [3] where poetry is said to “contract or dilate itself according to the Mould in which it was cast.” By using this construction, writers can subtly convey that their assertions are not solely personal opinions but are grounded in broader, often culturally or historically validated, frameworks. This versatile phrase thereby enhances both the credibility and contextual clarity of the narrative.
  1. Romans Chapter 8 There is no condemnation to them that, being justified by Christ, walk not according to the flesh, but according to the spirit.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  2. On June 2, 1899, according to General Otis’s report (p. 121), sixty per cent.
    — from The American Occupation of the Philippines 1898-1912 by James H. Blount
  3. The Poetry was to contract or dilate itself according to the Mould in which it was cast.
    — from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson

More usage examples

Also see: Google, News, Images, Wikipedia, Reddit, BlueSky


Home   Reverse Dictionary / Thesaurus   Datamuse   Word games   Spruce   Feedback   Dark mode   Random word   Help


Color thesaurus

Use OneLook to find colors for words and words for colors

See an example

Literary notes

Use OneLook to learn how words are used by great writers

See an example

Word games

Try our innovative vocabulary games

Play Now

Read the latest OneLook newsletter issue: Compound Your Joy