distinction between by and according to.
You've got to play by the rules.
Pharmacists are required by law to give the medicine prescribed by the doctor.

Would the meanings be the same? if I use 'according to' to replace 'by'

Thanks.

Question

distinction  between by and according to.
You've got to play by the rules. 
Pharmacists are required by law to give the medicine prescribed by the doctor.

Would the meanings  be the same? if I use 'according to' to replace 'by'

Thanks.

Answer

it would mean the same, but 'by' sounds more natural.

'According to' has a couple of meanings. in this context, it means 'play [in a way that does not conflict with] the rules'

However, 'According to' also means 'as it was said by'. 'According to a leading scientist, children learn better when they have a good diet'

Answers · 1

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