Common Speaking Mistake: ‘according to me’ Explained

If you have ever said “according to me” in a conversation or email, you have likely made a mistake that sounds unnatural to native English speakers. The phrase “according to me” is grammatically possible but almost never used in standard English. Instead, native speakers use phrases like “in my opinion,” “I think,” or “as far as I’m concerned.” This article explains exactly why “according to me” is a common speaking mistake, what to say instead, and how to sound more natural in everyday English.

Quick Answer: Why ‘according to me’ is a mistake

The phrase “according to” is used to report someone else’s words, a source, or an external authority. For example, “according to the weather report” or “according to my boss.” When you say “according to me,” you are treating yourself as an external source, which sounds odd and self-referential. Native speakers avoid this and use personal opinion phrases instead.

Understanding the core problem

The word “according” implies that the information comes from a source outside the speaker. When you use “according to me,” you are essentially saying “as stated by myself,” which is redundant and unnatural. English speakers do not treat themselves as an external source for their own opinions. Instead, they directly state their opinion using personal expressions.

Formal vs. informal context

In formal writing or speaking, “according to” is used with credible sources like research, experts, or official documents. In informal conversation, it is used with people you are quoting, such as “according to my friend.” Neither context uses “according to me.” For personal opinions, formal English prefers “in my view” or “it seems to me,” while informal English uses “I think” or “if you ask me.”

Email vs. conversation context

In emails, especially professional ones, saying “according to me” can confuse the reader because it sounds like you are citing yourself as an authority. Instead, use “from my perspective” or “in my experience.” In conversation, “according to me” can sound arrogant or awkward. Native speakers will likely understand what you mean, but it marks you as a non-native speaker.

Comparison table: ‘according to me’ vs. natural alternatives

Natural examples

Here are real-life examples showing how to replace “according to me” with natural alternatives.

Example 1: Giving an opinion at work

Mistake: According to me, we should delay the project.
Natural: In my opinion, we should delay the project.
Even better: I think we should delay the project because the timeline is too tight.

Example 2: Discussing a movie with friends

Mistake: According to me, the ending was confusing.
Natural: I thought the ending was confusing.
Even better: Honestly, I found the ending confusing.

Example 3: Writing a professional email

Mistake: According to me, your proposal needs more detail.
Natural: From my perspective, the proposal could benefit from more detail.
Even better: I would suggest adding more detail to the proposal to strengthen it.

Example 4: Casual conversation

Mistake: According to me, this restaurant is better than that one.
Natural: I prefer this restaurant over that one.
Even better: This restaurant is way better, if you ask me.

Common mistakes

Here are the most frequent errors learners make with “according to me” and how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Using ‘according to me’ in any context

This is the most common error. Learners often translate directly from their native language. For example, in some languages, a phrase like “according to me” is perfectly natural. In English, it is not.

Fix: Always replace “according to me” with “in my opinion,” “I think,” or “from my point of view.”

Mistake 2: Using ‘according to me’ in formal writing

Some learners think “according to me” sounds formal or authoritative. It does not. It sounds incorrect.

Fix: In formal writing, use “it is my view that,” “I believe,” or “in my assessment.”

Mistake 3: Confusing ‘according to’ with ‘in my opinion’

Learners sometimes use “according to” for all opinions, including their own. Remember: “according to” is for reporting others’ words or facts.

Fix: Use “according to” only for sources like “according to the report” or “according to the teacher.” For your own opinion, use personal expressions.

Better alternatives: When to use each

Here is a guide to choosing the right phrase for different situations.

In my opinion

Use this in both formal and informal settings. It is the safest and most common replacement. Example: “In my opinion, the meeting was productive.”

I think

Use this in everyday conversation and informal writing. It is direct and natural. Example: “I think we should leave now.”

From my perspective

Use this in professional or formal contexts, especially when you want to emphasize your personal viewpoint. Example: “From my perspective, the budget needs adjustment.”

As far as I’m concerned

Use this in informal conversation to express a strong personal opinion. Example: “As far as I’m concerned, that plan is fine.”

It seems to me

Use this when you want to sound tentative or polite. Example: “It seems to me that we are missing an important detail.”

Mini practice section

Test your understanding with these four questions. Each sentence contains a mistake. Rewrite it using a natural alternative.

Question 1

According to me, the best time to visit is spring.

Answer: In my opinion, the best time to visit is spring. (Or: I think the best time to visit is spring.)

Question 2

According to me, this software is easier to use.

Answer: From my perspective, this software is easier to use. (Or: I find this software easier to use.)

Question 3

According to me, the instructions were unclear.

Answer: It seemed to me that the instructions were unclear. (Or: I thought the instructions were unclear.)

Question 4

According to me, we should accept the offer.

Answer: As far as I’m concerned, we should accept the offer. (Or: I believe we should accept the offer.)

FAQ: Common questions about ‘according to me’

1. Is ‘according to me’ ever correct in English?

Technically, it is grammatically possible, but it is almost never used by native speakers. It sounds unnatural and can confuse listeners. It is best to avoid it entirely and use a natural alternative.

2. What should I say instead of ‘according to me’ in an email?

In professional emails, use “in my opinion,” “from my perspective,” or “I believe.” For example: “From my perspective, the timeline is realistic.” Avoid “according to me” in all written communication.

3. Why do some non-native speakers use ‘according to me’?

This often happens because of direct translation from languages where a similar phrase is natural. For example, in French, “selon moi” is correct. In English, the equivalent is not used. Learners need to learn the English pattern separately.

4. Can I use ‘according to me’ in very informal conversation?

Even in very informal conversation, native speakers do not use “according to me.” You might hear “if you ask me” or “personally, I think.” Stick to those phrases to sound natural.

Final tip for English learners

To avoid this mistake, remember this simple rule: “according to” is for other people or sources, not for yourself. When you want to give your own opinion, use “I think,” “in my opinion,” or “from my perspective.” Practice replacing “according to me” in your speech and writing, and you will sound much more natural. For more help with common speaking mistakes, explore our Speaking Mistake Fixes category. You can also check our Grammar Accuracy Checks for other common errors. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.