Common Speaking Mistake: ‘According to Me’ Explained
If you have ever said “according to me” in an English conversation or email, you may have noticed that it sounds slightly off or unnatural. The direct answer is: “according to me” is not a standard or grammatically correct phrase in English. Native speakers rarely use it, and it is widely considered a mistake. The correct phrase is “in my opinion” or “from my perspective.” This guide explains why “according to me” is wrong, when you might hear it, and what to say instead.
Quick Answer: What to Say Instead of “According to Me”
Do not use “according to me.” Use one of these natural alternatives:
- In my opinion – for giving your personal view.
- From my perspective – for explaining how you see a situation.
- I think – for everyday conversation.
- I believe – for a stronger or more formal statement.
- As far as I am concerned – for stating your personal position.
Why “According to Me” Is Wrong
The phrase “according to” is used to report information from a source that is not yourself. You use it to cite someone else’s statement, a report, a study, or a general rule. For example:
- “According to the weather report, it will rain today.”
- “According to my teacher, practice is the key.”
When you say “according to me,” you are treating your own opinion as if it were an external source. This sounds unnatural because your opinion is not a separate source—it is your own thought. Native speakers do not use “according to me” in standard English. It is a common mistake among learners who translate directly from their first language.
Comparison Table: “According to Me” vs. Correct Alternatives
| Phrase | Correct? | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| According to me | No | Avoid completely | ❌ According to me, this is the best option. |
| In my opinion | Yes | Formal and informal writing and speech | ✅ In my opinion, this is the best option. |
| From my perspective | Yes | When explaining your viewpoint | ✅ From my perspective, the plan needs more work. |
| I think | Yes | Casual conversation | ✅ I think we should leave now. |
| I believe | Yes | Formal or strong opinion | ✅ I believe honesty is the best policy. |
| As far as I am concerned | Yes | Stating your personal position | ✅ As far as I am concerned, the matter is closed. |
Natural Examples: Correct Usage in Context
Here are examples of how to use the correct phrases in real conversations and emails.
In Casual Conversation
- “I think we should try the new restaurant.”
- “In my opinion, the movie was too long.”
- “From my perspective, the problem is not that serious.”
In Professional Emails
- “In my opinion, the proposal needs more data.”
- “I believe we should delay the launch.”
- “As far as I am concerned, the budget is sufficient.”
In Group Discussions
- “From my perspective, the client wants faster delivery.”
- “I think we should ask for feedback first.”
Common Mistakes with “According to Me”
Learners often make these errors. Avoid them by using the correct alternatives.
Mistake 1: Using “According to me” in formal writing
❌ According to me, the report is incomplete.
✅ In my opinion, the report is incomplete.
Mistake 2: Using “According to me” in everyday speech
❌ According to me, she is right.
✅ I think she is right.
Mistake 3: Using “According to me” in emails
❌ According to me, we need more time.
✅ I believe we need more time.
Mistake 4: Confusing “according to” with “in my opinion”
Remember: “according to” is for external sources. “In my opinion” is for your own view. Do not mix them.
Better Alternatives: When to Use Each One
Choosing the right phrase depends on the situation. Here is a simple guide.
Use “In my opinion” for:
- Formal writing (essays, reports, business emails).
- Giving a balanced, thoughtful view.
- Example: “In my opinion, the policy should be revised.”
Use “I think” for:
- Casual conversations with friends or colleagues.
- Quick, everyday statements.
- Example: “I think we should order pizza.”
Use “I believe” for:
- Strong personal convictions.
- Formal or serious topics.
- Example: “I believe everyone deserves a second chance.”
Use “From my perspective” for:
- Explaining your unique viewpoint.
- Showing that others may see things differently.
- Example: “From my perspective, the project is on track.”
Use “As far as I am concerned” for:
- Stating your personal position clearly.
- Ending a discussion or making a firm statement.
- Example: “As far as I am concerned, the decision is final.”
Mini Practice: Test Yourself
Choose the correct phrase for each sentence. Answers are below.
- __________, the meeting was a waste of time. (According to me / In my opinion)
- __________, we should leave before traffic gets worse. (I think / According to me)
- __________, the new software is more efficient. (From my perspective / According to me)
- __________, the company needs to change its strategy. (I believe / According to me)
Answers
- In my opinion – Correct for giving a personal view.
- I think – Correct for casual suggestion.
- From my perspective – Correct for explaining your viewpoint.
- I believe – Correct for a strong opinion.
FAQ: Common Questions About “According to Me”
1. Is “according to me” ever correct in English?
No, it is not considered correct in standard English. Some learners use it because of direct translation from languages like French (selon moi) or Spanish (según yo), but native speakers do not use it. Always choose “in my opinion” or “I think.”
2. Can I use “according to me” in informal speech?
Even in informal speech, it sounds unnatural. Native speakers will understand what you mean, but it will mark you as a non-native speaker. It is better to use “I think” or “in my opinion” in all situations.
3. What is the difference between “in my opinion” and “from my perspective”?
“In my opinion” is more general and common. “From my perspective” emphasizes that you are speaking from your own point of view, often acknowledging that others may see things differently. Both are correct, but “in my opinion” is safer for most contexts.
4. Is “according to me” used in any dialects or regions?
It is not standard in any major English dialect. You may hear it from non-native speakers, but it is not accepted in professional or academic English. Stick to the alternatives listed in this guide.
Final Tip for Learners
If you catch yourself about to say “according to me,” stop and replace it with “in my opinion” or “I think.” With a little practice, the correct phrase will become automatic. For more help with common speaking mistakes, explore our Speaking Mistake Fixes category. If you have questions about this or other topics, visit our FAQ page or contact us. We are here to help you speak and write English with confidence.
