according to which

USAGE SUMMARY

"according to which" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a preceding fact or statement, often one that has just been mentioned. For example: Many people were shocked by John's sudden departure. According to which, he had left without saying goodbye.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

According to Which?

The Guardian - Money

Housing fees vary according to which residence you select.

Cornell University

# Set the y limits according to which cells exist.

Yale University

You have raised the question of free will and suggested two hypotheses, one according to which free will exists, and one according to which it doesn't.

University of California, Berkeley

according to which submarine construction was permitted, was already in existence.

Yale University

The dualist view, according to which a person is a body and a soul.

Yale University

In contrast to that, we've got the physicalist view, according to which there are just bodies.

Yale University

Or should we accept an account according to which people are just material objects, nothing more?

Yale University

And there's the physicalist view, according to which there are no souls.

Yale University

The embryos' appearance varies according to which genes are switched on or off.

Cornell University

A reaction mechanism is proposed according to which is consistent with experimental data.

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "according to which" when establishing a clear connection or dependency between two statements or conditions. Ensure the preceding statement provides the necessary context for understanding the subsequent one.

Common error

Avoid using "according to which" when there is no clear logical relationship between the clauses. Ensure the first part of the sentence sets up the condition or basis for the second part. If the connection is weak, rephrase to make the relationship explicit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to which" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a relative clause. It establishes a connection or dependency between two statements, where the second statement is conditioned or determined by the first. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to a preceding fact or statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

30%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to which" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase widely used to establish logical connections between statements. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and the provided examples demonstrate its application across academic, news, and scientific contexts. While it is considered formal, its versatility makes it a valuable tool in writing. When using the phrase, be aware of the other phrase possibilities to achieve the best possible clarity in writing. You can also check and test the alternatives with Ludwig's engine.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in accordance with what

This alternative emphasizes compliance or agreement with a specific set of rules or guidelines, rather than a general connection.

consistent with what

This phrase focuses on the alignment or agreement between different elements or ideas, emphasizing coherence.

in relation to what

This alternative indicates a connection or association between different entities, highlighting their interdependence.

based on what

This phrase emphasizes the foundation or origin of something, indicating that it is derived from a particular source or rationale.

depending on what

This alternative highlights the conditionality or variability of something, indicating that it is subject to change based on specific circumstances.

as determined by what

This phrase emphasizes the role of an authority in setting guidelines, highlighting how a decision is made.

pursuant to what

This alternative specifically points to a legal directive, indicating an action is done in line with the law.

relative to what

This phrase presents a comparative relationship, where something is understood in comparison to another.

in the context of which

This alternative focuses on the scenario around an event, specifying the circumstances.

by reason of which

This emphasizes the logical causation, specifically why something happens in a formal way.

FAQs

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

Use "according to which" to show a relationship or dependency. For example, "The plan includes several stages, according to which resources are allocated."

What are some alternatives to "according to which"?

You can use alternatives like "in accordance with what", "consistent with what", or "based on what" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "according to which" or a simpler phrase?

While "according to which" is grammatically correct, consider your audience. Simpler phrases may be more accessible, especially in informal contexts. Use alternatives if clarity is paramount.

What's the difference between "according to which" and "by which"?

"According to which" implies a direct relationship based on a preceding statement. "By which" simply indicates a means or method, without necessarily referring back to a specific statement. Therefore, they are not always interchangeable.