according to sources

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to sources" is correct and can be used in written English.
You use it to indicate that you are citing information from other sources, rather than your own knowledge. For example, "According to sources, the company will be closing its stores this week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hamas has apparently improved its communications too, according to sources.

The Guardian

It did not use an outside banker, according to sources.

The New York Times

According to sources involved, QSI operates different funds, raising money separately for them.

The Guardian - Sport

But the case against him is largely circumstantial, according to sources.

The Guardian

According to sources, Coach Nathaniel suggested that Mom drug Coach Simon with Children's Benadryl.

The New Yorker

David Axelrod and Rahm Emanuel, according to sources who spoke to CBS News's Bill Plante.

The New Yorker

The 23-year-old would consider joining, according to sources close to the forward.

The Guardian - Sport

Ms. Toepfer, according to sources, is trying to steer the magazine toward more uplifting stories.

The New York Times

Although a long-term Black associate and loyalist, he has several key advantages, according to sources.

The Guardian

According to sources familiar with Majidi's script, it depicts Muhammad's adventures through the age of 12.

The Guardian

He hoped, according to sources we have consulted, it would become worth more than £1.3m.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to sources", ensure your sources are credible and reliable. Mentioning the type or affiliation of the source (e.g., "according to sources within the company") adds further credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "according to sources" as a crutch to present information without any backing. While anonymity can be necessary, consistently relying on unnamed sources weakens your argument and reduces trust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to sources" functions as an attribution marker, indicating that the information presented is not the writer's original knowledge but is derived from external sources. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Wiki

8%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to sources" is a grammatically correct and frequently used attribution phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for a variety of contexts, mainly within News & Media. When using this phrase, prioritize source credibility and avoid overuse to maintain the strength and trustworthiness of your writing. Alternatives like "sources say" or "reports indicate" can be employed for variety, but always ensure the chosen phrase accurately reflects the nature and reliability of your source.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sources say

This alternative is more concise and direct, omitting "according to".

reports indicate

This phrase implies a more formal and documented basis for the information.

it is reported that

This option is a passive construction emphasizing the information being conveyed.

sources familiar with the matter state

This alternative specifies the sources' connection to the topic.

insiders reveal

This phrase suggests information coming from within an organization or group.

correspondents confirm

This alternative highlights the role of journalists or reporters in verifying the information.

knowledgeable individuals disclose

This phrasing indicates that the people know what they're talking about.

witnesses claim

The source of information here is direct observation and a degree of certainty.

analysts suggest

This implies that the statement is deduced from observations

observers note

This is used for information that is evident and apparent.

FAQs

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

You can use "according to sources" to introduce information that you've obtained from other people or documents. For example, "According to sources, the company is planning a major restructuring."

What's a more formal alternative to "according to sources"?

More formal alternatives include "reports indicate", "it is reported that", or "sources familiar with the matter state", depending on the context.

Is it better to name the source instead of saying "according to sources"?

Yes, whenever possible, naming the source directly (e.g., "according to the New York Times") is preferable as it increases transparency and credibility. Use "according to sources" when you need to protect the source's identity.

What does it mean when an article says "according to sources"?

It means the information being presented is based on information provided by individuals or documents that are not explicitly named. This is often done to protect confidentiality or when the information has not been officially confirmed.