Correct Usage of 'According to' vs 'As Per' in Formal and Informative Writing
When it comes to written communication, precision and clarity are key. The phrases 'according to' and 'as per' are often used interchangeably, but their usage can vary slightly based on the context. This article will explore the correct and appropriate use of these phrases in both formal and informal contexts, with a focus on guidelines that align well with Google's search engine optimization (SEO) standards.
Understanding the Phrases
The phrase according to is typically used to attribute information or opinions to a source. It can refer to following principles, norms, or guidelines stipulated for a particular activity. For instance:
According to the latest report, the global demand for renewable energy is on the rise.
On the other hand, as per is more formal and is frequently used in legal or business contexts to indicate compliance or adherence to established guidelines and instructions. For example:
As per the contract, the delivery must be made by the end of the month.
Some linguists and usage experts note that while both phrases essentially convey the same meaning, their connotations and usage can differ slightly in certain contexts. 'As per' is considered more formal and legally binding, which makes it more commonly found in formal writing, such as legal documents and business correspondence.
Context and Usage
The choice between 'according to' and 'as per' depends on the context and the formality of the document. While 'according to' can be used in nearly any context, 'as per' is particularly favored in legal, official, and business-related communications. For example:
The doctor stated, According to Dr. Jones, the patient needs to be put in intensive care immediately. This indicates Dr. Jones' viewpoint.
Meanwhile, As per Dr. Michaels, he doesn’t think the situation is so critical. This reflects a different interpretation from Dr. Michaels.
Both phrases can be used to allude to past actions or behaviors, especially when it comes to rules and conventions. However, 'as per' is less commonly used in everyday conversation and more often found in formal writing, such as legal agreements and official reports.
Formal and Legal Writing
Given the legalistic overtones of 'as per,' its use is heavily concentrated in formal and legal contexts. It is often employed in documents where precise adherence to guidelines, policies, or rules is crucial. For instance:
As per the procurement guidelines, all requests for materials must be submitted via the designated online portal by the end of each quarter.
In such contexts, using 'as per' adds a layer of formality and precision that is often necessary. However, it's crucial to recognize that its frequent use in such environments might not be as common in everyday spoken language or in informal writing.
Conclusion
Both 'according to' and 'as per' are correct in their usage, but they are more appropriately utilized within certain contexts. 'According to' is versatile and can be used in a wide range of written and spoken contexts, while 'as per' is more formal and best suited for legal and official documents.
By understanding the nuances between these phrases, writers can improve the clarity and formality of their communications, ultimately contributing to better SEO practices and ensuring that their content is more easily discoverable by Google and other search engines.