According as is a set phrase meaning "in proportion to" or "depending on." Its spelling seems illogical, with the final "ing" appearing to contradict the "as" that follows. However, it's simply a matter of pronunciation. The "g" is silent, so the word is pronounced [uh-kawr-ding] with a primary stress on the second syllable. "According" follows normal spelling rules, while "as" is an oddity like "island" or "chalk," where a consonant is written but not pronounced.
The phrase "according as" is an idiomatic expression that is typically used to indicate a relationship between two things or concepts, implying that one thing depends on or varies according to the other. It signifies a degree of dependence or alignment between the observed variables or factors.
Often used in formal or specialized contexts, "according as" can describe the extent to which something happens or is true based on different conditions, circumstances, or criteria. It is commonly employed to introduce a clause or statement that clarifies the criteria or conditions that determine a certain outcome or result. In this sense, "according as" expresses a sense of contingency or relativity.
This phrase emphasizes the importance of assessing situations, actions, or outcomes in relation to specific factors or circumstances. It implies that actions, decisions, or evaluations may change depending on the context or criteria applied. Consequently, "according as" conveys a sense of flexibility, adaptability, or responsiveness to various conditions.
The phrase "according as" is often used in literature, legal documents, academic discussions, or discussions on cause-and-effect relationships. It is synonymous with other expressions like "depending on," "in accordance with," or "as specified by." The phrase helps to establish and clarify the variable nature of a particular outcome or condition when influenced by different factors or criteria.
The phrase "according as" is composed of two parts: "according" and "as". Here is the etymology of each part:
1. According:
The word "according" originated from the Middle English term "acorden", derived from the Old French word "acorder", meaning "to agree" or "to be in harmony". It can also be traced back to the Latin word "accordare", which has the same meaning. Over time, the meaning of "according" evolved to refer to conforming, aligning, or being consistent with something.
2. As:
The word "as" has roots in Old English and is similar to the Dutch word "als" and the German word "als". Its precise origin is uncertain, but it can be traced back to various Indo-European languages.