The mistake and the correct phrase
Wrong
“According to my opinion, we should delay the launch.”
Correct
“In my opinion, we should delay the launch.”
In natural English, 'according to' is used when you refer to another source, such as a person, report, policy, or data point. For example: 'According to the report, sales increased in Q2.' When you are giving your own view, use 'in my opinion', 'I think', 'I believe', or 'from my point of view'.
Why Arabic speakers make this mistake
Many Arabic speakers are influenced by phrases such as 'حسب رأيي' or 'برأيي'. In Arabic, this structure can feel natural when introducing a personal opinion. When translated word for word, it becomes 'according to my opinion'. In English, however, 'according to' normally points to an external source, not your own opinion. That is why the phrase sounds unnatural to many native and fluent English speakers.
How to use the correct phrase in real work situations
Professional context
“In my opinion, we should focus on the Saudi market first.”
Professional context
“I think the attached proposal needs more details.”
Professional context
“In my opinion, good communication is important for leadership.”
Professional context
“From my point of view, this timeline is more realistic.”
Professional context
“I believe the main risk is customer adoption.”
Why does this matter in a professional context?
Saying 'according to my opinion' is usually understood, so do not worry if you have used it before. The issue is not meaning, but naturalness. In a meeting, interview, or senior email, the phrase can sound like a direct translation from Arabic rather than confident professional English. Using 'in my opinion', 'I think', or 'from my point of view' makes your message sound smoother and more international. It also helps you separate facts from opinions clearly, which is important when discussing decisions, recommendations, risks, and strategy.
Ready-to-use phrases for giving your opinion
“In my opinion, we should review the budget again.”
A direct and professional way to give your view in a meeting.
“I think this option is more practical.”
Natural in everyday workplace conversations and messages.
“I believe this approach will save time.”
Useful when you want to sound confident in a presentation or proposal.
“From my point of view, the main issue is timing.”
Good for respectful discussion when others may have different views.
“Based on my experience, this process needs more testing.”
Use this when your opinion comes from your professional experience.
“According to the report, customer satisfaction improved last quarter.”
Use 'according to' only when referring to an external source.
What to say instead
Weak version
“”
Strong version
“”
Other phrases to double-check
- •Discuss about the project — Say 'discuss the project', not 'discuss about the project'.
- •Explain me the issue — Say 'explain the issue to me' or 'explain it to me'.
- •Revert back to me — Say 'reply to me' or 'get back to me'.
- •I am agree — Say 'I agree'.
- •As per my opinion — Say 'in my opinion' or 'from my point of view'.