In accordance with

You usually start with an action, then add the phrase. For example: "We processed the refund in accordance with the store policy." You can also start a sentence with it to set a professional tone. "In accordance with your request, I have attached the file." It always needs a noun after it. This noun is usually a law, a rule, a contract, or someone's wishes. It acts like a prepositional phrase. It connects what you are doing to the reason why you are doing it. In formal reports, you might see it used in the passive voice. For example, "The test was conducted in accordance with safety standards."

This is your best friend for office emails. Use it when you are talking to a boss or a client. It works perfectly in legal documents or rental contracts. If you are writing a formal report, this phrase adds a layer of authority. It shows you have done your homework. It is great for confirming that you followed instructions. Use it when you want to sound professional and reliable. It is common in business, law, and official government communications.

Avoid this phrase at a casual party. If you tell a friend, "In accordance with our plans, I am here," they might think you are a robot. It is too heavy for daily chats. Don't use it while texting your mom about dinner. Also, don't use it if you aren't actually following a specific rule. It is for facts and regulations, not just general opinions. If you use it too much in a casual setting, you will sound stiff or even sarcastic.

Western business culture values written agreements and "the letter of the law." This phrase reflects that focus on precision and accountability. It comes from the word "accord," which means harmony or agreement. When you act in accordance with something, you are in harmony with the rules. In many offices, this is a "shield" phrase. It helps people avoid blame by pointing to a pre-existing policy. It is a staple of what people call "Corporate Speak."

You might hear people say as per. That is very common in British business English. According to is the younger, more casual cousin of this phrase. It is much more common in spoken English. If you want to be very simple, just use following. If you are in a legal setting, you might hear pursuant to. Each one changes the "temperature" of your conversation. In accordance with is the gold standard for formal, written clarity.