according to the script

USAGE SUMMARY

"according to the script" is a perfectly correct phrase to use in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that someone should do or say something as it's written in a script or plan. For example: "All actors must follow their lines according to the script."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The New York Times

Everything went according to the script It was a night of few surprises.

Independent

His Labour opponents are genuinely rattled; this is not going according to the script.

The Guardian - Opinion

The race unfolded according to the script, with Cavic going out fast and Phelps finishing strong.

The New York Times - Sports

When E then confronts them, they shrink in the "agony of perceivedness," according to the script.

The New Yorker

The guests, according to the script anyway, would be out too late partying to even notice.

The New York Times - Magazine

According to the script prepared in advance of the exercise, Pam resulted in 61,290 fatalities and 179,890 injuries.

The New Yorker

But the Republican National Convention has hardly played out according to the script that Mr. Romney's advisers had written.

The New York Times

According to the script, the commercial is addressed to abortion rights supporters generally and does not name any specific politicians.

The New York Times

According to the script, by Thunder Levin, who also wrote "Mutant Vampire Zombies from the 'Hood!," the afternoon's scene would take place at "Ext.

The New Yorker

According to the script, the next stage — the bulk of the Americans' 2013 schedule — should be the hardest: five regional rivals, home and away.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, use "according to the script" to highlight the difference between spontaneous conversation and pre-written lines.

Common error

Avoid using "according to the script" if you're referring to a general intention or loose plan. The phrase implies a detailed, written plan or scenario, so using "as planned" or "as expected" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to the script" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action or event is unfolding as predetermined by a written script or plan. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing both literal scripts (plays, movies) and more abstract plans (political conventions, exercises).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to the script" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that events are unfolding as predetermined by a written script or plan. As Ludwig highlights, it's commonly used in News & Media. The phrase is generally considered grammatically correct and appears frequently in both formal and informal contexts. It’s a clear way to show something is happening how planned or pre-arranged. Ludwig AI confirms the expression has appropriate usage and there are multiple alternative and synonymous such as "as planned", "as expected" or "following the plan".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

according to plan

Similar to "as planned", but includes the word "plan" for emphasis.

as planned

Focuses on the execution of a plan, omitting explicit reference to a "script".

as expected

Highlights the anticipated outcome, without specifying the presence of a formal script.

by the book

Emphasizes adherence to rules or procedures, implying a formal guideline.

as stipulated

Highlights that something is taking place as specifically required or agreed upon.

as per the scenario

Emphasizes a pre-defined scenario that things should align with.

following the blueprint

Implies adherence to a detailed and structured plan or design.

in line with the outline

Indicates alignment with a structured guide, broader than just a script.

in accordance with the schedule

Refers to compliance with a specific timeline or timetable.

running like clockwork

Implies smooth and precise execution, often without needing a detailed script.

FAQs

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

You can use "according to the script" to indicate that events are unfolding as planned or written in a script. For example, "The actors delivered their lines "according to the script"."

What does "according to the script" mean?

The phrase "according to the script" means that something is happening as it was planned or written in a script. It suggests a pre-arranged or pre-determined course of action.

What's an alternative to saying "according to the script"?

Alternatives to "according to the script" include "as planned", "as expected", or "following the plan".

Is it always appropriate to use "according to the script"?

No, it's not always appropriate. Use "according to the script" when referring to a detailed plan or written scenario. If you're referring to a general intention, consider using phrases like "as intended" or "as designed".