согласно vs по

soglasno vs po — according to (formal) vs according to/by

What it really means

Согласно is a formal preposition meaning “according to” and governs the dative: согласно плану, согласно данным. По can also mean according to, but is broader and more idiomatic in everyday phrases; its complement is dative in this sense. По additionally covers routes, methods, distribution, and many other meanings.

Examples in natural speech

Согласно договору, оплата производится ежемесячно.
According to the contract, payment is made monthly.
Согласно данным опроса, доверие растёт.
According to the survey data, trust is growing.
По правилам, телефоны нужно выключить.
According to the rules, phones must be switched off.
Мы действовали по инструкции.
We acted according to the instructions.
Согласно расписанию, поезд прибывает в семь.
According to the schedule, the train arrives at seven.

Common mistakes

Do not use the genitive after согласно: согласно плану, not согласно плана. Do not replace every по with согласно: по дороге and по телефону have unrelated meanings, while согласно is restricted to conformity with a source or rule.

Memory tip

Согласно formally cites a source; по follows the everyday rule and its wider map of meanings.

Frequently asked questions

What case does согласно govern?

The dative: согласно закону, согласно решению, согласно новым данным.

Is согласно плану correct?

Yes. The common form согласно плану is correct; согласно плана is a frequent case error.

Can согласно introduce a person's opinion?

Yes, in formal prose: согласно Иванову means “according to Ivanov,” with the name in the dative.

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