Common Speaking Mistake: ‘According to Me’ Explained
If you have ever said “according to me” in a conversation or email, you have made a very common speaking mistake. The direct answer is that “according to me” is almost always incorrect in standard English. Native speakers do not use this phrase because it sounds unnatural and illogical. The phrase “according to” is used to cite an external source, not your own opinion. This guide will explain why it is wrong, what to say instead, and how to express your personal views correctly in different situations.
Quick Answer: Why ‘According to Me’ Is Wrong
The phrase “according to” means “as stated by” or “based on the information from.” You use it to refer to a source outside yourself, such as a person, a book, a report, or a rule. For example, “According to the weather report, it will rain today.” When you say “according to me,” you are treating yourself as an external source, which sounds odd. Instead, use phrases like “in my opinion,” “I think,” “from my perspective,” or “as I see it.” These are natural and correct for sharing your personal view.
Understanding the Core Problem
The issue with “according to me” is a matter of logic and usage. The preposition “according to” introduces a third-party source. It implies that the information comes from somewhere else and is being reported. Your own opinion is not a separate source; it is your own thought. Therefore, using “according to me” creates a strange contradiction. It is like saying “as stated by myself,” which is redundant and awkward in English.
Formal vs. Informal Context
In formal writing, such as academic essays, business reports, or professional emails, “according to me” is never acceptable. You must use objective language or clearly mark your opinion with phrases like “in my view” or “it seems to me.” In informal conversation, the phrase is still avoided by native speakers. You might hear someone say “according to me” as a joke or to mimic a non-native speaker, but it is not a natural part of everyday speech. The safest rule is to avoid it entirely.
Email and Conversation Context
In emails, especially professional ones, using “according to me” can make you sound unsure or unprofessional. Instead, use “I believe,” “my understanding is,” or “from my perspective.” In casual conversation, you can simply say “I think” or “if you ask me.” The key is to match the tone of the situation while staying grammatically correct.
Comparison Table: ‘According to Me’ vs. Correct Alternatives
| Incorrect Phrase | Correct Alternative | Context | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|
| According to me, this is the best option. | In my opinion, this is the best option. | Formal or informal | Direct and clear personal view. |
| According to me, the meeting was too long. | I think the meeting was too long. | Casual conversation | Simple and natural. |
| According to me, we should wait. | From my perspective, we should wait. | Professional email | Shows a considered viewpoint. |
| According to me, the report is incomplete. | It seems to me that the report is incomplete. | Polite disagreement | Softer and more diplomatic. |
| According to me, she is wrong. | As I see it, she is wrong. | Informal discussion | Emphasizes personal perspective. |
Natural Examples
Here are examples of how to correctly express your opinion in different situations. Notice that none of them use “according to me.”
- In a meeting: “In my opinion, we should focus on customer feedback first.”
- In an email to a colleague: “I believe the deadline is too tight. Can we discuss an extension?”
- In a casual chat with a friend: “I think that movie was overrated. What did you think?”
- In a formal report: “From my perspective, the data suggests a different approach.”
- In a debate: “As I see it, the main issue is lack of communication.”
Common Mistakes
English learners often make these errors when trying to express their opinion. Avoid them to sound more natural.
- Mistake 1: “According to me, the answer is correct.”
Fix: “In my opinion, the answer is correct.” - Mistake 2: “According to my view, we need more time.”
Fix: “From my point of view, we need more time.” (Note: “according to my view” is also incorrect.) - Mistake 3: “According to myself, this is better.”
Fix: “I personally think this is better.” - Mistake 4: Using “according to me” in a formal email.
Fix: “My understanding is that the project is on track.”
Better Alternatives: When to Use Each One
Choosing the right alternative depends on the situation. Here is a guide to help you decide.
In My Opinion
Use this in most formal and semi-formal contexts. It is direct and clear. Example: “In my opinion, the proposal needs more detail.”
I Think
This is the most common and natural phrase for everyday conversation. It is simple and works in almost any informal setting. Example: “I think we should leave now.”
From My Perspective
Use this when you want to emphasize your personal viewpoint, especially in professional discussions. It sounds thoughtful. Example: “From my perspective, the budget is too restrictive.”
As I See It
This is good for expressing a strong personal view in a polite way. It is common in discussions and debates. Example: “As I see it, the real problem is timing.”
It Seems to Me
Use this when you want to be softer or less assertive. It is useful for polite suggestions or when you are not 100% sure. Example: “It seems to me that we have missed an important detail.”
Mini Practice Section
Test your understanding with these four questions. Choose the correct option for each sentence.
- Which sentence is correct?
a) According to me, this is the best plan.
b) In my opinion, this is the best plan.
c) According to my opinion, this is the best plan. - Fill in the blank: “______, the movie was too long.”
a) According to me
b) I think
c) According to my view - Which phrase is best for a formal email?
a) I think
b) In my opinion
c) As I see it - Correct the mistake: “According to me, we should start earlier.”
a) According to my view, we should start earlier.
b) I believe we should start earlier.
c) According to myself, we should start earlier.
Answers
- b) “In my opinion, this is the best plan.” is correct.
- b) “I think” is the most natural choice.
- b) “In my opinion” is appropriate for formal writing.
- b) “I believe we should start earlier.” is the correct fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is “according to me” ever correct?
No, it is not considered correct in standard English. The only exception might be in very rare, self-referential contexts, such as “According to me, the author of this book is…” but even then, it sounds awkward. Stick to the alternatives.
2. Can I use “according to my opinion”?
No, this is also incorrect. “According to” already implies a source, so “according to my opinion” is redundant. Use “in my opinion” instead.
3. What about “according to myself”?
This is incorrect for the same reason. “Myself” is a reflexive pronoun and does not work as a source. Use “I personally think” or “in my view.”
4. How do I express my opinion in a group discussion without sounding rude?
Use softer phrases like “it seems to me,” “from my perspective,” or “I would suggest.” These show respect for others’ views while sharing your own. Avoid “according to me” entirely.
Final Tip for Better English
Remember that “according to” is for external sources. Whenever you want to share your own thought, choose a phrase like “in my opinion,” “I think,” or “from my perspective.” This small change will make your English sound much more natural and professional. Practice using these alternatives in your daily conversations and emails, and you will quickly break the habit of saying “according to me.”
For more help with common speaking mistakes, explore our Speaking Mistake Fixes section. You can also check our FAQ for additional questions about English usage.
