The phrase “according to the article” is used to introduce information reported in a written source. You can make your English more natural and professional by using alternatives such as the article states, as reported in the article, according to the report, the article explains, and as mentioned in the article. The best choice depends on whether you are summarizing, citing evidence, or discussing information in professional communication.
Top 5 alternatives: The article states, as reported in the article, according to the report, the article explains, as mentioned in the article.
Introduction
The phrase “according to the article” is commonly used when referring to information presented in a newspaper, magazine, blog post, research publication, or online resource. It helps readers understand that a statement comes from a particular source rather than being presented as your personal opinion.
However, repeating the same expression throughout an essay, report, presentation, or conversation can make your English sound repetitive. Learning alternatives to “according to the article” allows you to communicate ideas more clearly, improve your writing style, and develop stronger professional English skills.
Whether you are writing an academic assignment, preparing a business report, discussing current events, or summarizing online research, choosing the right expression matters. Some alternatives emphasize what the author says, while others highlight evidence, explanations, or reported findings. Understanding these differences also helps you express excitement in English when discussing an interesting discovery, without confusing enthusiasm with factual reporting.
Quick Categories of Alternatives
Formal alternatives to “according to the article”
Use these expressions in academic essays, formal reports, and research-based writing.
- As stated in the article
- As indicated by the article
- As outlined in the article
- According to the publication
Pro Tip: Formal writing benefits from precise source attribution. Choose an expression that accurately reflects what the original source actually says.
Casual alternatives
These phrases work well in everyday discussions, informal writing, and conversations about something you have read.
- The article says
- The article mentions
- The article points out
- From what the article says
Pro Tip: Keep casual expressions simple when talking with friends or explaining an article to someone who has not read it.
Professional alternatives
Use these expressions in workplace emails, presentations, reports, and professional discussions.
- The article reports
- The article highlights
- The article explains
- As reported in the article
Pro Tip: Match your wording to the source. Use “reports” for reported information and “highlights” for points receiving particular attention.
Informal expressions
These expressions are suitable for relaxed conversations and informal discussions.
- The article talks about
- The article brings up
- The article goes on to say
- Based on what I read
Pro Tip: Informal expressions in English are useful in conversation, but replace vague phrases with specific attribution when writing an academic or professional document.
“Good writing does not depend on using complicated words. It depends on choosing the clearest words for the situation.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning other ways to say “according to the article,” pay attention to these five common errors.
1. Using the wrong preposition
Incorrect: According with the article, prices are increasing.
Correct: According to the article, prices are increasing.
2. Treating an author’s opinion as a proven fact
Incorrect: The article proves that the policy will succeed.
Better: The article suggests that the policy may succeed.
3. Repeating the same phrase too often
Repetitive: According to the article, sales increased. According to the article, customers were satisfied.
Better: The article reports an increase in sales and notes that customers were satisfied.
4. Using an informal expression in formal academic writing
Informal: The article talks about economic growth.
More formal: The article examines economic growth.
5. Attributing information to the wrong source
Incorrect: The article reports that the survey found a 20% increase when the article actually discusses a different result.
Better: Check the original passage and accurately describe what the source reports.
What Does “According to the Article” Mean?
“According to the article” means that the information being presented comes from, or is attributed to, a particular written source.
The phrase is useful when summarizing information without claiming that you personally discovered or independently verified it.
Grammar explanation:
- According to: A prepositional expression meaning “as stated by” or “based on the information provided by.”
- The article: The noun phrase identifying the specific written source.
- Complete sentence: The phrase typically appears before the information being attributed to the source.
Example: According to the article, regular exercise can improve sleep quality.
In this example, the speaker attributes the claim to the article rather than presenting it as a personal finding.
When to Use “According to the Article”
You can use this expression in several situations.
- Academic writing: When referencing information from a published article.
- News discussions: When summarizing a journalist’s reporting.
- Professional communication: When sharing information from an industry publication.
- Research summaries: When explaining findings presented in a source.
- Presentations: When introducing information to an audience.
- Everyday conversations: When discussing something you recently read.
Spoken vs. Written Usage
| Situation | Recommended phrase |
|---|---|
| Everyday conversation | The article says |
| Academic essay | As stated in the article |
| Business presentation | The article highlights |
| Research summary | The article reports |
| Formal report | As outlined in the publication |
Formal vs. Informal Usage
Formal expressions include “as indicated in the article” and “according to the publication.” Informal options include “the article says” and “the article talks about.”
Choose the expression that matches your audience, purpose, and level of formality.
“The strongest source attribution tells readers both where information comes from and how confidently it should be interpreted.”
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “According to the Article”?
Yes. “According to the article” is both polite and professional in most contexts. It is a neutral expression that helps establish the source of information without sounding confrontational.
However, the phrase may become repetitive if it appears in every paragraph. In professional communication, expressions such as “the article reports,” “the publication notes,” and “as outlined in the report” can improve readability.
Business-style example:
“According to the article, customer expectations are changing. The publication also highlights the importance of improving digital services.”
Polite? Yes.
Professional? Yes.
Pros and Cons of Using “According to the Article”
Pros
- Simple and natural: Easy for English learners and experienced writers to understand.
- Friendly tone: Introduces information without sounding overly technical.
- Common usage: Widely understood in academic and everyday English.
- Easy to understand: Clearly identifies the source of a statement.
Cons
- Can sound repetitive: Frequent use makes writing less engaging.
- Limited stylistic variety: It may not communicate whether the source reports, argues, or explains something.
- Requires accurate attribution: The source must genuinely support the statement.
- May be too general: More specific expressions can communicate the source’s purpose more effectively.
Other Ways to Say “According to the Article” With Examples
These alternatives will help you sound more fluent, confident, and natural in different situations.
Use them according to tone, context, and audience to communicate information clearly and accurately.
1. The Article States
Meaning: The article explicitly presents a particular piece of information.
Explanation: This is a neutral, direct alternative suitable for formal and informal writing.
Example Sentence: The article states that remote work has changed how companies recruit employees.
Best Use: Formal writing
Worst Use: Casual storytelling
Tone: Neutral, direct, factual
Context Variability: Casual: “The article says so.” Professional: “The article states that demand has increased.” Spoken: “The article states that pretty clearly.”
2. As Stated in the Article
Meaning: Something is presented in the same way as it appears in the article.
Explanation: This expression is useful when connecting a statement to a written source.
Example Sentence: As stated in the article, customer feedback plays an important role in product development.
Best Use: Academic writing
Worst Use: Relaxed conversation
Tone: Formal, precise, objective
Context Variability: Casual: “The article says that.” Professional: “As stated in the article, the deadline remains unchanged.” Spoken: “As the article states, this matters.”
3. The Article Reports
Meaning: The article provides information about an event, finding, or development.
Explanation: Use this expression when the source presents reported information rather than merely offering an explanation.
Example Sentence: The article reports an increase in online purchases during the holiday season.
Best Use: News summaries
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Factual, neutral, journalistic
Context Variability: Casual: “The article says sales went up.” Professional: “The article reports higher quarterly sales.” Spoken: “The article reports a recent increase.”
4. The Article Explains
Meaning: The article describes how or why something happens.
Explanation: This phrase works particularly well when the source clarifies a process, cause, or concept.
Example Sentence: The article explains why clear communication is essential for successful teamwork.
Best Use: Educational writing
Worst Use: Simple announcements
Tone: Informative, clear, explanatory
Context Variability: Casual: “It explains why.” Professional: “The article explains the revised procedure.” Spoken: “The article explains how it works.”
5. As Mentioned in the Article
Meaning: A detail has already been referred to in the article.
Explanation: Use it to reconnect readers with information previously introduced in the source.
Example Sentence: As mentioned in the article, the company plans to expand its services next year.
Best Use: Follow-up references
Worst Use: Firsthand findings
Tone: Neutral, professional, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “Like the article mentioned.” Professional: “As mentioned in the article, implementation begins in January.” Spoken: “As the article mentioned earlier, the plan has changed.”
6. The Article Notes
Meaning: The article briefly draws attention to a particular detail.
Explanation: This phrase is suitable for supplementary facts or observations.
Example Sentence: The article notes that many consumers now prefer online payment options.
Best Use: Business reports
Worst Use: Major arguments
Tone: Professional, measured, factual
Context Variability: Casual: “The article mentions it.” Professional: “The article notes a shift in consumer preferences.” Spoken: “The article notes that demand is changing.”
7. The Article Highlights
Meaning: The article gives particular attention to an important point.
Explanation: Choose this phrase when the source emphasizes a key issue or finding.
Example Sentence: The article highlights the importance of protecting personal information online.
Best Use: Key findings
Worst Use: Minor details
Tone: Emphatic, professional, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “It points out the main thing.” Professional: “The article highlights three operational priorities.” Spoken: “The article highlights a serious concern.”
8. As Reported in the Article
Meaning: Information is presented as something reported by the source.
Explanation: This formal construction emphasizes attribution rather than personal opinion.
Example Sentence: As reported in the article, the organization opened two new regional offices.
Best Use: News summaries
Worst Use: Friendly chats
Tone: Formal, factual, objective
Context Variability: Casual: “The article says it happened.” Professional: “As reported in the article, revenue increased.” Spoken: “As the article reports, the project is underway.”
9. According to the Publication
Meaning: Information is attributed to a particular publication.
Explanation: This alternative works well when referring to a newspaper, magazine, journal, or media outlet.
Example Sentence: According to the publication, the new guidelines will take effect in December.
Best Use: Media references
Worst Use: Unidentified sources
Tone: Formal, neutral, authoritative
Context Variability: Casual: “The magazine says so.” Professional: “According to the publication, the market is expanding.” Spoken: “According to the publication, changes are expected.”
10. The Article Indicates
Meaning: The article provides information that points toward a particular conclusion.
Explanation: Use this phrase when the source suggests a finding without necessarily stating it directly.
Example Sentence: The article indicates that customer satisfaction has improved.
Best Use: Evidence summaries
Worst Use: Unsupported claims
Tone: Analytical, measured, professional
Context Variability: Casual: “It seems to suggest that.” Professional: “The article indicates a positive trend.” Spoken: “The article indicates that things are improving.”
11. As Explained in the Article
Meaning: Information is presented in the way the article explains it.
Explanation: This expression is especially useful when describing a concept, method, or process.
Example Sentence: As explained in the article, effective planning reduces unnecessary delays.
Best Use: Technical explanations
Worst Use: Simple greetings
Tone: Educational, formal, clear
Context Variability: Casual: “The article explains how.” Professional: “As explained in the article, the process requires approval.” Spoken: “As the article explains, timing matters.”
12. The Article Suggests
Meaning: The article presents an idea or conclusion as a possibility.
Explanation: This phrase is appropriate when the source offers an interpretation rather than a definitive conclusion.
Example Sentence: The article suggests that flexible working arrangements may improve employee satisfaction.
Best Use: Tentative conclusions
Worst Use: Confirmed facts
Tone: Cautious, analytical, thoughtful
Context Variability: Casual: “It seems to suggest that.” Professional: “The article suggests a need for further evaluation.” Spoken: “The article suggests another possibility.”
13. The Article Points Out
Meaning: The article draws attention to a particular fact or issue.
Explanation: This is a natural alternative for emphasizing a relevant detail.
Example Sentence: The article points out that poor planning can increase project costs.
Best Use: Key observations
Worst Use: Highly formal prose
Tone: Clear, conversational, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “It points out a problem.” Professional: “The article points out several risks.” Spoken: “The article points out an important detail.”
14. As Outlined in the Article
Meaning: Information follows the explanation, plan, or structure presented in the article.
Explanation: Use this phrase when referring to a process, set of steps, or organized argument.
Example Sentence: As outlined in the article, the strategy involves three stages of implementation.
Best Use: Project documents
Worst Use: Casual storytelling
Tone: Structured, formal, precise
Context Variability: Casual: “As the article explains.” Professional: “As outlined in the article, the rollout begins next month.” Spoken: “As outlined earlier, we have three steps.”
15. The Article Discusses
Meaning: The article examines a particular topic.
Explanation: This expression is useful when introducing the subject matter of a source.
Example Sentence: The article discusses the challenges small businesses face when adopting new technology.
Best Use: Topic summaries
Worst Use: Specific statistics
Tone: Neutral, informative, academic
Context Variability: Casual: “The article talks about it.” Professional: “The article discusses supply chain challenges.” Spoken: “The article discusses several options.”
16. The Article Reveals
Meaning: The article presents information that may be new or previously unknown to the reader.
Explanation: Use it when the source genuinely uncovers a discovery, detail, or finding.
Example Sentence: The article reveals previously overlooked challenges in urban transportation.
Best Use: New findings
Worst Use: Routine information
Tone: Engaging, emphatic, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “The article uncovers something new.” Professional: “The article reveals gaps in the current process.” Spoken: “The article reveals an interesting finding.”
17. The Article Emphasizes
Meaning: The article gives special importance to a particular idea.
Explanation: This phrase is appropriate when the author strongly stresses a point.
Example Sentence: The article emphasizes the need for consistent employee training.
Best Use: Main arguments
Worst Use: Minor facts
Tone: Assertive, formal, focused
Context Variability: Casual: “It really stresses this point.” Professional: “The article emphasizes regulatory compliance.” Spoken: “The article emphasizes why preparation matters.”
18. The Article Observes
Meaning: The article makes an observation about a situation or trend.
Explanation: This alternative works well for analytical commentary and considered observations.
Example Sentence: The article observes that consumer preferences are changing rapidly.
Best Use: Analytical writing
Worst Use: Direct quotations
Tone: Reflective, measured, academic
Context Variability: Casual: “The article notices a change.” Professional: “The article observes a broader market shift.” Spoken: “The article observes a similar pattern.”
19. The Article Claims
Meaning: The article asserts that something is true.
Explanation: This expression can signal that a statement is being attributed to a source without endorsing its accuracy.
Example Sentence: The article claims that the proposed system will reduce operating costs.
Best Use: Evaluating assertions
Worst Use: Neutral established facts
Tone: Skeptical, analytical, cautious
Context Variability: Casual: “The article says it will work.” Professional: “The article claims that costs will decline.” Spoken: “The article makes that claim.”
20. The Article Argues
Meaning: The article presents reasons supporting a particular position.
Explanation: Use this phrase when the author develops a position or attempts to persuade readers.
Example Sentence: The article argues that public transportation deserves greater investment.
Best Use: Argument analysis
Worst Use: Simple factual lists
Tone: Analytical, persuasive, academic
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer makes that point.” Professional: “The article argues for policy reform.” Spoken: “The article argues that the change is necessary.”
21. Based on the Article
Meaning: A conclusion or statement is derived from information in the article.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when making an interpretation based on the source.
Example Sentence: Based on the article, the company appears to be prioritizing customer retention.
Best Use: Source-based analysis
Worst Use: Unsupported conclusions
Tone: Analytical, neutral, reasoned
Context Variability: Casual: “From what I read.” Professional: “Based on the article, further review is advisable.” Spoken: “Based on the article, that seems likely.”
22. As the Article Explains
Meaning: The phrase introduces information that the article has explained.
Explanation: It creates a natural link between an explanation in the source and your discussion.
Example Sentence: As the article explains, effective communication reduces misunderstandings in the workplace.
Best Use: Explanatory writing
Worst Use: Unrelated topics
Tone: Clear, professional, explanatory
Context Variability: Casual: “Like the article explains.” Professional: “As the article explains, the policy applies to all departments.” Spoken: “As the article explains, the details matter.”
23. The Article Describes
Meaning: The article gives details about a person, event, process, or situation.
Explanation: Choose this phrase when the source provides a description rather than an argument.
Example Sentence: The article describes how local businesses adapted to changing customer needs.
Best Use: Detailed summaries
Worst Use: Unsupported statistics
Tone: Informative, neutral, descriptive
Context Variability: Casual: “The article talks about what happened.” Professional: “The article describes the revised workflow.” Spoken: “The article describes the situation clearly.”
24. The Article Finds
Meaning: The article presents a result or conclusion from an investigation or analysis.
Explanation: This expression is particularly suitable when reporting research findings, provided the source actually reports a finding.
Example Sentence: The article finds that participants responded positively to the new training program.
Best Use: Research summaries
Worst Use: Pure opinion pieces
Tone: Evidence-focused, factual, academic
Context Variability: Casual: “The article found that it worked.” Professional: “The article finds a correlation between the variables.” Spoken: “The article finds a noticeable difference.”
25. The Article Concludes
Meaning: The article presents its final judgment or takeaway.
Explanation: Use this phrase when summarizing the author’s conclusion rather than a detail from the middle of the text.
Example Sentence: The article concludes that long-term planning is essential for sustainable growth.
Best Use: Final conclusions
Worst Use: Opening details
Tone: Formal, conclusive, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The article ends by saying that.” Professional: “The article concludes that further investment is needed.” Spoken: “The article concludes with a recommendation.”
26. As Noted in the Article
Meaning: The phrase attributes a previously identified detail to the article.
Explanation: This concise expression works well in professional documents and academic discussions.
Example Sentence: As noted in the article, employee engagement can influence workplace performance.
Best Use: Professional reports
Worst Use: Casual conversation
Tone: Concise, formal, neutral
Context Variability: Casual: “As the article mentions.” Professional: “As noted in the article, the figures require review.” Spoken: “As noted earlier, we need more information.”
27. The Publication States
Meaning: The publication explicitly provides a statement or piece of information.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when you want to refer to the publisher or publication rather than the article itself.
Example Sentence: The publication states that its updated guidelines apply to all contributors.
Best Use: Editorial references
Worst Use: Unverified sources
Tone: Formal, factual, professional
Context Variability: Casual: “The magazine says.” Professional: “The publication states that the policy has changed.” Spoken: “The publication states its position clearly.”
28. The Author Notes
Meaning: The author draws attention to a fact or observation.
Explanation: Use this phrase when the detail is attributable to the writer rather than the publication as a whole.
Example Sentence: The author notes that further research is needed to confirm the results.
Best Use: Author analysis
Worst Use: Anonymous reporting
Tone: Academic, precise, neutral
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer mentions that.” Professional: “The author notes a limitation in the study.” Spoken: “The author notes that more evidence is needed.”
29. The Article Makes Clear
Meaning: The article communicates an idea in a way that is presented as clear or explicit.
Explanation: This expression is useful when emphasizing a central message that the source communicates clearly.
Example Sentence: The article makes clear that effective planning requires cooperation across departments.
Best Use: Main messages
Worst Use: Ambiguous evidence
Tone: Confident, direct, emphatic
Context Variability: Casual: “The article makes that clear.” Professional: “The article makes clear that compliance is mandatory.” Spoken: “The article makes clear what needs to change.”
30. From What I Read
Meaning: The speaker bases a statement on information they have read.
Explanation: This natural expression is useful in conversation, although it is less precise than naming a source in formal writing.
Example Sentence: From what I read, the organization is planning to introduce new services next year.
Best Use: Everyday discussion
Worst Use: Formal citations
Tone: Conversational, cautious, natural
Context Variability: Casual: “From what I read, it looks promising.” Professional: “Based on the article I reviewed, the proposal appears feasible.” Spoken: “From what I read, the changes are coming soon.”
More Professional Reaction Phrases for Discussing Articles
When an article contains a surprising finding or an interesting idea, you may also want to respond to its content rather than simply attribute information.
These professional reaction phrases help you communicate interest, agreement, or uncertainty while remaining clear about the source.
- That is an interesting finding. Use this when a result catches your attention.
- The evidence is compelling. Use this when the supporting evidence is persuasive.
- That raises an important question. Use this to introduce further analysis.
- The conclusion deserves further consideration. Use this when you want to evaluate a claim carefully.
- That provides useful context. Use this when the article helps explain a broader issue.
Remember that expressing a reaction is different from summarizing a source. “The article reports an increase” attributes information, while “That is an interesting finding” communicates your response to it.
Pull Quotes: Key Writing Lessons
“Use ‘states’ for explicit information, ‘suggests’ for tentative conclusions, and ‘argues’ for a position supported by reasons.”
“Professional writing becomes stronger when source attribution is accurate, varied, and easy to follow.”
“A useful alternative should improve clarity, not simply replace one phrase with a more complicated expression.”
Mini Quiz: Test Your Understanding
Choose the best answer for each question.
1. Which phrase is most appropriate for introducing a research result?
A. The article talks about
B. The article finds
C. The article brings up
Correct answer: B. “The article finds” is suitable when reporting a result or finding presented by the source.
2. You want to describe the author’s position on a public policy. Which phrase is best?
A. The article argues
B. The article mentions
C. From what I read
Correct answer: A. “The article argues” signals that the author presents a position supported by reasons.
3. Which phrase is most suitable for an informal conversation?
A. As outlined in the publication
B. As indicated in the article
C. The article says
Correct answer: C. “The article says” is natural and easy to understand in everyday conversation.
4. The article offers a possible explanation but does not prove it. Which phrase should you use?
A. The article proves
B. The article suggests
C. The article confirms
Correct answer: B. “The article suggests” communicates a tentative interpretation without overstating the evidence.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| The article states | Neutral, direct | Formal writing |
| As stated in the article | Formal, precise | Academic essays |
| The article reports | Factual, journalistic | News summaries |
| The article explains | Informative, clear | Educational content |
| As mentioned in the article | Neutral, professional | Follow-up references |
| The article highlights | Emphatic, professional | Key findings |
| According to the publication | Formal, objective | Media references |
| The article suggests | Cautious, analytical | Tentative conclusions |
| The article argues | Persuasive, academic | Argument analysis |
| From what I read | Conversational, natural | Everyday discussion |
FAQs
1. What are the best alternatives to “according to the article”?
Some useful alternatives are “the article states,” “as reported in the article,” “the article explains,” “as mentioned in the article,” and “according to the publication.” Choose the phrase that best reflects the source.
2. What is a formal way to say “according to the article”?
“As stated in the article,” “as outlined in the article,” and “according to the publication” are suitable formal alternatives for academic and professional writing.
3. How can I avoid repeating “according to the article” in an essay?
Vary your source attribution with phrases such as “the author argues,” “the article reports,” and “the publication notes.” Ensure each expression accurately describes the source.
4. Is “the article says” professional English?
Yes. “The article says” is grammatically correct and easy to understand. In formal reports or academic writing, “the article states” or “the article reports” may be more precise.
5. What is the difference between “the article states” and “the article suggests”?
“The article states” usually introduces information explicitly presented by the source. “The article suggests” indicates a possible interpretation or conclusion that may not be stated directly.
Conclusion
Learning other ways to say “according to the article” helps you write more naturally, avoid repetitive language, and communicate information with greater precision. Expressions such as “the article reports,” “the author argues,” and “as stated in the article” serve different purposes, so understanding their meanings is more valuable than memorizing them as interchangeable phrases.
Practice using a few alternatives each day in summaries, emails, essays, and conversations. Pay attention to tone, audience, and the strength of the evidence before choosing an expression. The goal is not to make every sentence sound formal, but to make every sentence clear, accurate, and appropriate for its context.
Have a favorite alternative? Share the phrase you use most often and how you use it in your writing.
