According to Him: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
December 4, 2023

The idiom "according to him" indicates that something is based on someone else's opinion, statement, or perspective. It can also imply that the speaker does not agree with or trust the person they refer to.

In short:

  • "According to him" means based on someone else's view or claim.
  • It can also suggest disagreement or distrust.

What Does "According to Him" Mean?

The phrase "according to him" is a preposition that introduces a subordinate clause. It means that the following information or idea is derived from or attributed to someone else, usually a male person. The person can be named or implied by the context. In addition, the phrase can also mean that the speaker does not fully agree with or believe the person they are referring to. It can indicate doubt, skepticism, criticism, or contrast.

Where Does "According to Him" Come From?

The idiom "according to him" is derived from the word "according," which came from the Middle English word "acorden", which means "to be in harmony" or "to grant." It has been used as a preposition since the 14th century and was initially followed by the word "to," which indicated the object of agreement or conformity.

10 Examples of "According to Him" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this phrase in sentences:

  • According to him, the meeting is at 2 p.m.
  • According to him, the movie was a masterpiece.
  • According to him, the recipe calls for two cups of sugar.
  • According to him, the stock market is highly unpredictable.
  • According to him, the project will be completed by Friday.
  • According to him, the weather forecast predicts rain tomorrow.
  • According to him, the best restaurant is just around the corner.
  • According to him, she's the most talented singer in the competition.
  • According to him, the book is a must-read for all history enthusiasts.
  • According to him, the new policy is not well-received by the employees.

Examples of "According to Him" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has been used in various forms of pop culture:

  • In the song According to You (2009) by Orianthi, the singer compares how her current boyfriend and ex-boyfriend see her differently. She sings, "According to you, I'm stupid/ I'm useless / I can't do anything right."
  • In The Catcher in the Rye (1951) by J.D. Salinger, the protagonist, Holden Caulfield, narrates his childhood experiences and thoughts. He often uses the phrase "according to him" or "according to her" to express his skepticism or disdain for other people's views or actions.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "According to Him"

Here are some synonyms or alternative ways to say this idiom:

  • As he put it
  • By his account
  • On his authority
  • Based on his words
  • As per his statement
  • Following his advice
  • From his point of view
  • In line with his opinion

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "According to Him"

Here are some common questions and answers about this phrase:

  • What does "according to him" mean?

The idiom "according to him" indicates that something is based on someone else's opinion, statement, or perspective. It can also imply that the speaker does not agree with or trust the person they refer to.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "according to him"?

The idiom "according to him" is derived from the word "according," which came from the Middle English word "acorden", which means "to be in harmony" or "to grant." It has been used as a preposition since the 14th century and was initially followed by the word "to," which indicated the object of agreement or conformity.

  • What is the difference between "according to him" and "according to them"?

"According to him" is used when the source of information or opinion is a singular male person. "According to them" is used when the source of information or opinion is a plural group of people, regardless of gender.

  • How do you use "according to him" in a question?

You can use "according to him" in a question by placing it at the beginning or the end, depending on the focus or emphasis of the question. For example, "According to him, who is responsible for this mess?"

  • How do you use "according to him" in a negative sentence?

You can use "according to him" in a negative sentence by adding the word "not" before or after the phrase, depending on the meaning or intention of the sentence. For example, "She is not interested in him, according to him."

  • Can you use "according to him" with other prepositions?

You can use "according to him" with other prepositions, such as "for," "from," "with," etc., to modify or specify the meaning of the phrase. For example, "According to him, from what I understand, this is a very complicated situation."

  • Can you use "according to him" in a passive-voice sentence?

You can use "according to him" in a passive voice sentence by placing it after the verb "be" and before the past participle of the main verb. For example, "The decision was made according to him."

  • Can you use "according to him" in a conditional sentence?

You can use "according to him" in a conditional sentence by placing it after the word "if" and before the subject and verb of the subordinate clause. For example, "If, according to him, this is a good deal, I will accept it."

  • Can you use "according to him" in an indirect speech sentence?

You can use "according to him" in an indirect speech sentence by placing it before the reported clause and after the reporting verb. For example, "He said that, according to him, this was a great success."

  • Can you use "according to him" in an imperative sentence?

You can use "according to him" in an imperative sentence by placing it at the end and after a comma. For example, "Stop it, according to him."

Final Thoughts About "According To Him"

The idiom "according to him" is a common and helpful expression in various contexts and situations. It can indicate the source, basis, or origin of information or opinion. It can also imply the speaker's attitude, tone, or intention.

In summary:

  • "According to him" means based on someone else's view or claim.
  • It can also suggest disagreement or distrust.
  • It can be used with different pronouns and prepositions.
  • It can be used in various types of sentences.

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