according to script

USAGE SUMMARY

"according to script" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is following a predetermined plan or set of instructions. Example: The play went according to script, with each actor delivering their lines flawlessly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

But it's not going according to script.

The New York Times

Anyway, as often happens in movie production, things don't quite go according to script.

The New York Times

According to script, that's when the veteran teaches a lesson to the 19-year-old.

The New York Times

Actors were not to take turns according to script but talk as if in real conversation.

The New York Times

In course of production according to script, desert Arabs play native game with pebbles.

The New Yorker

''It just went according to script,'' he complained — and it was slow and boring, to boot.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Thus games unfold according to scripts that nobody but team personnel ever sees.

The New Yorker

It has gone beyond enhancing the kind of ideational discourse people normally carry on orally and replaced it with discourse carried out according to scripts (Fischer et al. [2013]).

Smart Learning Environments

But Rosler said she would be careful of treating them that way -- "photographers had different meanings and uses, and they were shot according to scripts -- the purpose wasn't propaganda," she said.

Huffington Post

The organization also edits the packages and compiles the overall show each week according to scripts written by the young reporters and producers.

Unicef

He is, according to the script, hiding behind a tree.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "according to script" when you want to convey that an event or action unfolded as predetermined or planned, often implying a lack of spontaneity or deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "according to script" when describing events that are inherently unpredictable or spontaneous. This phrase is best suited for situations where a plan or expectation exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to script" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed or how an event unfolds. It indicates that something is happening in a predetermined or expected manner, often implying adherence to a plan or set of instructions. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in diverse scenarios, such as political conventions, sports matches and business operations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to script" is a prepositional phrase that describes events unfolding as planned or expected. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media contexts. It suggests a predetermined sequence, sometimes implying a lack of spontaneity. While versatile, it should be avoided in genuinely unpredictable scenarios. Related phrases include "as planned" and "as expected", which offer subtly different shades of meaning. By understanding its proper usage and nuances, writers can effectively communicate adherence to a plan while considering the potential connotations of rigidity or lack of originality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as planned

Emphasizes the execution of a prior plan, omitting the reference to a 'script'.

as expected

Focuses on the fulfillment of expectations, rather than adherence to a detailed plan.

by the book

Highlights strict adherence to rules or procedures, differing from following a narrative.

following protocol

Implies adherence to established protocols or procedures, which is more formal than a script.

in accordance with the plan

A more formal version that stresses compliance with a documented plan.

as per the arrangement

Highlights following an agreement or arrangement, shifting the focus from a written plan.

on cue

Specifically refers to actions performed at the right moment, as in a performance.

as designed

Focuses on the original design or intention, rather than a script or narrative.

true to form

Indicates that someone or something is behaving in a predictable way, which might not always be scripted.

running like clockwork

Emphasizes smooth and precise execution, differing from adherence to a narrative.

FAQs

How can I use "according to script" in a sentence?

You can use "according to script" to describe events that unfold as planned or expected. For example, "The meeting went "according to script", with each item on the agenda being discussed and resolved efficiently."

What's the difference between "according to script" and "as planned"?

"According to script" implies a detailed, predetermined sequence of events, often with a sense of artificiality or lack of deviation. "As planned" simply means that events unfolded in line with initial expectations, without necessarily implying a rigid structure.

What are some alternatives to "according to script"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "as expected", "by the book", or "following protocol". These alternatives emphasize different aspects of adherence to a plan or set of rules.

When is it appropriate to use "according to script"?

It's appropriate to use "according to script" when you want to highlight that events are unfolding predictably, potentially implying a lack of originality or spontaneity, often akin to a play or movie following its predetermined narrative.