In French, the most common translations for “according to” are selon and d’après. While they are often interchangeable, there are subtle differences in usage and tone. Other alternatives include suivant and conformément à, depending on context.

Selon

Etymology: The word selon comes from Old French selonc, derived from the Latin secundum, meaning “following” or “in accordance with.”

Usage: Selon is neutral and widely used in both spoken and written French. It introduces a source of information, opinion, or perspective.

Examples:

• Selon le journal, il va pleuvoir demain. (According to the newspaper, it will rain tomorrow.)
• Selon Marie, ce restaurant est excellent. (According to Marie, this restaurant is excellent.)
• Selon la loi, c’est interdit. (According to the law, it is forbidden.)

D’après

Etymology: D’après literally means “from after,” composed of de (from) + après (after). It originally implied a later interpretation or reconstruction of events.

Usage: D’après often suggests a more indirect or inferred source, sometimes used for hearsay or secondhand information. It can also imply a degree of interpretation.

Examples:

• D’après ce que j’ai entendu, il va démissionner. (From what I’ve heard, he’s going to resign.)
• D’après les témoins, l’accident était inévitable. (According to witnesses, the accident was unavoidable.)
• D’après son expression, elle était surprise. (Judging by her expression, she was surprised.)

Other translations

Suivant

Meaning: “Following” or “in accordance with.” More formal and less common in everyday speech.

Example:

• Suivant les instructions, nous avons fermé le système. (Following the instructions, we shut down the system.)

Conformément à

Meaning: “In compliance with” or “in accordance with.” Used in formal, legal, or technical contexts.

Example:

• Conformément à la politique de l’entreprise, les documents doivent être signés. (In accordance with company policy, the documents must be signed.)

À en croire

Meaning: “If one is to believe.” Used for doubtful or unverified claims.

Example:

• À en croire les rumeurs, il serait millionnaire. (If the rumors are to be believed, he’s a millionaire.)

Choosing between selon and d’après

• Use selon for neutral, direct attribution (Selon l’expert…).
• Use d’après for indirect or interpreted information (D’après ce qu’il dit…).
• Selon is more common in formal writing, while d’après can sound slightly more conversational.