Alternative Ways to Say “As Discussed”: A Comprehensive Guide
In professional and academic settings, the phrase “as discussed” is commonly used to reference previous conversations or agreements. While functional, overusing this phrase can make your writing or speech sound repetitive and lack nuance. This article explores a wide range of alternative phrases, providing you with the tools to communicate more effectively and precisely. Whether you’re writing reports, giving presentations, or simply engaging in everyday conversations, mastering these alternatives will enhance your clarity and professionalism. This comprehensive guide is suitable for English language learners, professionals looking to refine their communication skills, and anyone aiming to enrich their vocabulary.
By understanding the subtle differences between these phrases, you can choose the most appropriate option to convey your intended meaning. This guide offers detailed explanations, real-world examples, and practice exercises to help you confidently incorporate these alternatives into your communication repertoire. From formal business correspondence to casual team meetings, you’ll learn how to express yourself more effectively and avoid sounding monotonous.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition and Context of “As Discussed”
- Structural Breakdown of Alternative Phrases
- Types and Categories of Alternatives
- Examples of Alternative Phrases
- Usage Rules and Considerations
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition and Context of “As Discussed”
The phrase “as discussed” is a common idiom used to refer back to a previous conversation, meeting, or agreement. Its primary function is to remind the listener or reader of a shared understanding or decision that has already been established. It implies that the information being presented is not new but rather a reiteration or continuation of something previously covered.
In terms of grammar, “as discussed” is a reduced adverbial clause. The full clause would be “as it was discussed,” but the relative pronoun “it” and the auxiliary verb “was” are often omitted for brevity. The phrase functions adverbially, modifying the verb in the main clause by providing context or background information.
The context in which “as discussed” is used is typically formal or semi-formal. It’s appropriate in business correspondence, academic writing, and professional presentations. However, in very casual conversations, it might sound overly formal. The effectiveness of “as discussed” hinges on the assumption that all parties involved were indeed present or aware of the prior discussion. If there’s a chance that someone is unfamiliar with the conversation, it’s better to provide more specific details.
Structural Breakdown of Alternative Phrases
Many alternatives to “as discussed” follow similar structural patterns, often involving a conjunction (like “since” or “following”) followed by a noun phrase or a reduced clause. Understanding these patterns can help you generate your own variations and choose the most appropriate option for a given situation.
Here are some common structural elements:
- Conjunction + Noun Phrase: e.g., “Following our meeting,” “Regarding our conversation,” “Concerning the agreement.”
- Conjunction + Reduced Clause: e.g., “Since we talked about…”, “As we agreed…”, “Given our previous discussion…”
- Preposition + Noun Phrase: e.g., “Based on our discussion,” “According to our agreement,” “In light of our conversation.”
- Participle Phrase: e.g., “Discussing the matter further…”, “Having agreed on…”, “Considering the previous talks…”
By mixing and matching these elements, you can create a wide range of phrases that convey the same basic meaning as “as discussed” but with varying degrees of formality and specificity. It’s crucial to consider the audience and the context when choosing the most suitable alternative.
Types and Categories of Alternatives
The best alternative to “as discussed” depends heavily on the specific context of the conversation or agreement. Here are some categories of alternatives, categorized by the type of context they refer to.
Referring to Previous Meetings
When referencing a specific meeting, you can use phrases that explicitly mention the meeting itself. This adds clarity and helps the audience recall the specific context of the discussion. These phrases are particularly useful when multiple meetings have taken place.
Examples include:
- Following our meeting…
- In our last meeting…
- During the meeting on [date]…
- As agreed in the meeting…
- Subsequent to our meeting…
Referring to Agreements and Decisions
If the point is to remind everyone of a specific agreement or decision that was made, use phrases that emphasize the consensus reached. This is especially important in project management and legal contexts.
Examples include:
- As agreed…
- According to our agreement…
- Based on our decision…
- In accordance with our understanding…
- Per our agreement…
Referring to General Conversations
For more informal or general references to past conversations, use phrases that are less specific than those used for meetings or agreements. These are suitable for everyday communication and internal team discussions.
Examples include:
- As we talked about…
- Regarding our conversation…
- Concerning our discussion…
- In our previous conversation…
- Following our chat…
Referring to Written Communication
When referring to information shared in writing, such as emails, memos, or reports, use phrases that acknowledge the written source. This is crucial for maintaining a clear record of communication.
Examples include:
- As mentioned in my email…
- According to the report…
- Per the memo…
- Referencing the document…
- In my previous correspondence…
Examples of Alternative Phrases
Here are some comprehensive tables showing how to use alternative phrases in different contexts. Each table provides a variety of examples to illustrate the nuanced usage of each phrase.
Examples for Referring to Meetings
The following table provides examples of using alternative phrases to “as discussed” when referring to previous meetings. These phrases help specify the context and remind participants of the specific discussions held.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Following our meeting on Monday, … | Following our meeting on Monday, we have decided to proceed with the revised marketing strategy. | Referring to a specific decision made after a meeting. |
| In our last meeting, … | In our last meeting, we outlined the steps for the upcoming product launch. | Recalling the key points discussed in the most recent meeting. |
| During the meeting on July 15th, … | During the meeting on July 15th, the budget allocation for the project was finalized. | Pinpointing a specific detail from a meeting held on a particular date. |
| As agreed in the meeting, … | As agreed in the meeting, Sarah will be responsible for coordinating the event logistics. | Highlighting an agreement reached during the meeting. |
| Subsequent to our meeting, … | Subsequent to our meeting, we conducted a thorough review of the proposed changes. | Indicating actions taken after the meeting. |
| Based on the meeting’s outcome, … | Based on the meeting’s outcome, we are now seeking approval from the board. | Relating current actions to the results of the meeting. |
| Referencing the minutes from our meeting, … | Referencing the minutes from our meeting, the action items have been distributed among the team. | Referring to documented records of the meeting for specific details. |
| As per the meeting’s agenda, … | As per the meeting’s agenda, we will now discuss the project timeline. | Sticking to the planned topics of discussion. |
| Following up on our meeting, … | Following up on our meeting, I’m sending you the presentation slides. | Continuing actions initiated in the meeting. |
| Reflecting on our meeting, … | Reflecting on our meeting, we need to address the potential risks identified. | Analyzing the discussions and implications of the meeting. |
| In light of the discussions during our meeting, … | In light of the discussions during our meeting, we have adjusted our strategy to better align with market needs. | Explaining changes made based on meeting insights. |
| Considering the points raised in our meeting, … | Considering the points raised in our meeting, we are reevaluating our budget allocation. | Taking into account the various viewpoints presented during the meeting. |
| Given the decisions made in our meeting, … | Given the decisions made in our meeting, we will proceed with the implementation phase next week. | Acting according to the agreed upon resolutions. |
| In reference to the action items from our meeting, … | In reference to the action items from our meeting, please submit your reports by Friday. | Reminding participants of their assigned tasks. |
| With regard to the topics covered in our meeting, … | With regard to the topics covered in our meeting, we need to further investigate the feasibility of the project. | Focusing on specific subjects discussed in the meeting. |
| Revisiting the topics discussed in our meeting, … | Revisiting the topics discussed in our meeting, it is important to clarify the roles and responsibilities of each team member. | Returning to previously discussed subjects for further clarification. |
| Based on the consensus from our meeting, … | Based on the consensus from our meeting, we will implement the new software system next month. | Acting in accordance with the agreement reached during the meeting. |
| As a result of our meeting, … | As a result of our meeting, we have decided to postpone the project launch. | Describing the outcomes and consequences of the meeting. |
| Following a review of the meeting notes, … | Following a review of the meeting notes, we identified several areas for improvement in our process. | Analyzing the documented records of the meeting to identify areas for enhancement. |
| In continuation of our discussion during the meeting, … | In continuation of our discussion during the meeting, let’s delve deeper into the specifics of the marketing plan. | Continuing a conversation that was initiated during the meeting. |
Examples for Referring to Agreements
This table illustrates alternative phrases to “as discussed” when referring to pre-existing agreements. Using these phrases emphasizes the importance of sticking to the agreed-upon terms and conditions.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence | Context |
|---|---|---|
| As agreed, … | As agreed, the payment will be made in two installments. | Referring to a payment schedule. |
| According to our agreement, … | According to our agreement, the supplier is responsible for all shipping costs. | Clarifying responsibilities as per the contract. |
| Based on our decision, … | Based on our decision, we will proceed with the expansion project. | Announcing a major project based on a prior decision. |
| In accordance with our understanding, … | In accordance with our understanding, the confidentiality agreement remains in effect. | Reaffirming the terms of a confidentiality agreement. |
| Per our agreement, … | Per our agreement, the renovations will be completed by the end of the month. | Stating the deadline for a construction project. |
| Consistent with our agreement, … | Consistent with our agreement, we will provide quarterly performance reports. | Ensuring the regular submission of performance reports. |
| In line with our prior agreement, … | In line with our prior agreement, the prices will remain fixed for the next year. | Confirming the stability of prices as agreed upon. |
| Pursuant to our agreement, … | Pursuant to our agreement, all disputes will be resolved through arbitration. | Defining the method for resolving disputes. |
| As per the terms of our agreement, … | As per the terms of our agreement, the warranty covers all manufacturing defects. | Explaining the scope of the warranty coverage. |
| Following the terms of our agreement, … | Following the terms of our agreement, we will conduct a final inspection before closing. | Describing the final steps before concluding a deal. |
| Adhering to our agreement, … | Adhering to our agreement, we will maintain the highest standards of quality. | Committing to maintaining quality standards as agreed. |
| As stipulated in our agreement, … | As stipulated in our agreement, the contract is subject to the laws of this jurisdiction. | Clarifying the legal jurisdiction of the contract. |
| In compliance with our agreement, … | In compliance with our agreement, we will ensure all data is securely stored. | Guaranteeing the secure storage of data as agreed. |
| Under the provisions of our agreement, … | Under the provisions of our agreement, we have the right to terminate the contract. | Stating the conditions under which the contract can be terminated. |
| According to the signed agreement, … | According to the signed agreement, the intellectual property rights belong to our company. | Asserting the ownership of intellectual property rights. |
| As per the understanding outlined in our agreement, … | As per the understanding outlined in our agreement, both parties are responsible for their own legal fees. | Clarifying financial responsibilities for legal representation. |
| Based on the mutual agreement, … | Based on the mutual agreement, we will share the profits equally. | Describing the profit-sharing arrangement. |
| In accordance with the agreed-upon terms, … | In accordance with the agreed-upon terms, we will provide ongoing technical support. | Offering continuous technical support as part of the agreement. |
| As mutually agreed upon, … | As mutually agreed upon, we will schedule regular progress meetings. | Committing to holding regular meetings to track progress. |
| As detailed in our agreement, … | As detailed in our agreement, the project scope includes the development of three modules. | Defining the scope of the project as specified in the agreement. |
| Following the stipulations of our agreement, … | Following the stipulations of our agreement, all changes must be documented and approved in writing. | Emphasizing the importance of documenting any modifications to the agreement. |
| In adherence to the contract agreement, … | In adherence to the contract agreement, both parties must sign off on all deliverables. | Ensuring that all project outputs are formally approved by both parties. |
| Pursuant to the legal agreement, … | Pursuant to the legal agreement, any breach of contract will result in penalties. | Highlighting the consequences of not complying with the terms of the contract. |
| In compliance with the negotiated agreement, … | In compliance with the negotiated agreement, we will conduct annual audits to ensure compliance. | Committing to regular audits to maintain adherence to the agreement. |
| Adhering to the terms of the business agreement, … | Adhering to the terms of the business agreement, we will ensure that all financial transactions are transparent and auditable. | Promising transparency and accountability in financial dealings as per the terms. |
Examples for Referring to Conversations
This table provides examples of alternative phrases to “as discussed” when referring to general conversations. These alternatives are suitable for informal discussions and casual exchanges.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence | Context |
|---|---|---|
| As we talked about, … | As we talked about, I’m planning to take a vacation next month. | Sharing personal plans discussed previously. |
| Regarding our conversation, … | Regarding our conversation, I’ve looked into the pricing options. | Providing follow-up information after a discussion. |
| Concerning our discussion, … | Concerning our discussion, I have some further questions about the project scope. | Expressing additional inquiries related to a previous conversation. |
| In our previous conversation, … | In our previous conversation, we touched on the importance of teamwork. | Recalling a specific point from a past discussion. |
| Following our chat, … | Following our chat, I’ve implemented the changes we discussed. | Reporting on actions taken after a brief conversation. |
| Remembering our conversation, … | Remembering our conversation, I wanted to recommend a good book to you. | Offering a recommendation based on a past discussion. |
| Reflecting on our talk, … | Reflecting on our talk, I realized the need for better communication. | Sharing insights gained from a previous conversation. |
| As per our earlier exchange, … | As per our earlier exchange, I’m sending you the documents you requested. | Fulfilling a request made during a previous interaction. |
| Based on our informal discussion, … | Based on our informal discussion, we’ve decided to try a new approach. | Making a decision based on a casual conversation. |
| Following up on what we spoke about, … | Following up on what we spoke about, I’ve scheduled a meeting with the client. | Taking action as a result of a previous discussion. |
| Touching base on our conversation, … | Touching base on our conversation, I wanted to provide an update on the project status. | Providing a brief update on a topic previously discussed. |
| In continuation of our dialogue, … | In continuation of our dialogue, let’s explore the potential benefits further. | Continuing a conversation by delving deeper into a specific area. |
| Referring back to our chat, … | Referring back to our chat, I’d like to discuss the next steps in more detail. | Returning to a previous conversation to elaborate on specific items. |
| Recalling our recent discussion, … | Recalling our recent discussion, I thought you might find this article interesting. | Sharing relevant information that aligns with a previous conversation. |
| Revisiting our previous talk, … | Revisiting our previous talk, it’s important to address the concerns that were raised. | Returning to a former conversation to tackle outstanding issues. |
| As we previously mentioned in our conversation, … | As we previously mentioned in our conversation, the deadline for submissions has been extended. | Reminding participants of a key detail that was communicated earlier. |
| Based on the points raised in our conversation, … | Based on the points raised in our conversation, we need to adjust our strategy to better meet the customer’s needs. | Modifying a plan based on insights from a past discussion. |
| In response to our conversation, … | In response to our conversation, I’ve prepared a detailed proposal for your review. | Creating a formal document as a follow-up to a discussion. |
| Following your suggestions from our conversation, … | Following your suggestions from our conversation, I’ve implemented several improvements to the software. | Making changes based on recommendations made during a previous talk. |
| As a direct result of our conversation, … | As a direct result of our conversation, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in team morale. | Describing the positive outcomes that stemmed from a prior discussion. |
| Considering what we discussed last week, … | Considering what we discussed last week, I think it would be beneficial to restructure our team. | Suggesting a significant change based on previous discussions. |
| Taking into account our recent conversation, … | Taking into account our recent conversation, we should schedule a follow-up meeting to address any remaining concerns. | Planning further action to resolve any issues that arose during the talk. |
| In light of our earlier discussion, … | In light of our earlier discussion, we should reassess our priorities for the next quarter. | Reevaluating priorities as a result of insights from a prior discussion. |
| Referencing our discussion from yesterday, … | Referencing our discussion from yesterday, I’ve gathered all the necessary data for our analysis. | Collecting required information after a previous discussion. |
| With regard to our conversation earlier today, … | With regard to our conversation earlier today, I’d like to clarify a few points about the budget allocation. | Seeking clarification on specific aspects of a topic discussed earlier in the day. |
Examples for Referring to Written Communication
This table demonstrates alternative ways to say “as discussed” when referencing written communication, such as emails, reports, and memos. These phrases ensure clarity and provide a clear reference point for the information being presented.
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence | Context |
|---|---|---|
| As mentioned in my email, … | As mentioned in my email, the deadline for submissions is Friday. | Reminding recipients of a deadline previously communicated via email. |
| According to the report, … | According to the report, sales have increased by 15% this quarter. | Referencing a specific finding from a formal report. |
| Per the memo, … | Per the memo, all employees are required to attend the mandatory training session. | Communicating a requirement outlined in a company memo. |
| Referencing the document, … | Referencing the document, the detailed project plan is attached for your review. | Directing attention to a project plan included as an attachment. |
| In my previous correspondence, … | In my previous correspondence, I outlined the payment terms and conditions. | Recalling previously communicated financial details. |
| As stated in the attached file, … | As stated in the attached file, please find the budget breakdown for the upcoming year. | Referring to a budget breakdown provided in an attached document. |
| Based on the information in the letter, … | Based on the information in the letter, we have approved your request for an extension. | Approving a request based on the details provided in a formal letter. |
| As per the guidelines outlined in the manual, … | As per the guidelines outlined in the manual, employees must adhere to the dress code policy. | Enforcing compliance with dress code rules as specified in a manual. |
| According to the announcement, … | According to the announcement, the company will be closed for the holidays. | Informing employees about holiday closures based on an official announcement. |
| Following the details in the proposal, … | Following the details in the proposal, we will start the project implementation next week. | Initiating a project based on the specifics provided in a proposal. |
| In reference to the email below, … | In reference to the email below, please confirm your attendance at the event. | Requesting confirmation for an event mentioned in a previous email. |
| Touching on the points in the report, … | Touching on the points in the report, we need to address the declining customer satisfaction. | Focusing on a critical issue highlighted in a report. |
| Revisiting the information in the memo, … | Revisiting the information in the memo, it is crucial to update your contact information. | Emphasizing the need to update personal details as per a memo. |
| Referencing the data in the spreadsheet, … | Referencing the data in the spreadsheet, we can analyze the trends in sales performance. | Using spreadsheet data to analyze sales trends. |
| As clarified in the document, … | As clarified in the document, the terms of the agreement are non-negotiable. | Stating the rigidity of the agreement terms based on a document. |
| In accordance with the instructions provided in the email, … | In accordance with the instructions provided in the email, please complete the survey by Friday. | Instructing recipients to finish a survey following the guidelines in an email. |
| Based on the findings presented in the report, … | Based on the findings presented in the report, we should invest more in research and development. | Advocating for increased investment based on research outcomes. |
| As detailed in the attached brochure, … | As detailed in the attached brochure, our services include comprehensive financial planning. | Highlighting the comprehensive services offered, as described in a brochure. |
| Following the guidelines in the policy document, … | Following the guidelines in the policy document, employees are entitled to paid time off. | Informing employees about their paid time off benefits as per the policy. |
| As described in the user manual, … | As described in the user manual, the software can be easily installed with these steps. | Guiding users on software installation using instructions from the manual. |
| Considering the information provided in the client’s email, … | Considering the information provided in the client’s email, we should adjust our proposal to better meet their needs. | Adapting the proposal based on specific details shared by the client. |
| Taking into account the data presented in the quarterly report, … | Taking into account the data presented in the quarterly report, we need to address the declining profit margins. | Addressing a drop in profit margins using insights from the quarterly report. |
| In light of the recommendations made in the audit report, … | In light of the recommendations made in the audit report, we will implement new internal controls. | Implementing new controls to align with audit recommendations. |
| Referencing the key points outlined in the presentation slides, … | Referencing the key points outlined in the presentation slides, we should summarize the main takeaways for the audience. | Summarizing the important points from a presentation to ensure audience understanding. |
| With regard to the terms and conditions specified in the contract, … | With regard to the terms and conditions specified in the contract, both parties must adhere to the dispute resolution process. | Ensuring both parties comply with the dispute resolution process as stated in the contract. |
Usage Rules and Considerations
When choosing an alternative to “as discussed,” consider the following rules and considerations:
- Formality: Select a phrase that matches the formality of the context. “Following our chat” is more casual than “Pursuant to our agreement.”
- Specificity: Be as specific as possible. Referencing the date of a meeting (“During the meeting on July 15th”) is more helpful than simply saying “Following our meeting.”
- Audience: Consider your audience’s familiarity with the topic. If there’s a chance someone wasn’t involved in the original discussion, provide more context.
- Clarity: Ensure the alternative phrase is clear and unambiguous. Avoid overly complex or obscure language.
- Consistency: Maintain a consistent style throughout your writing or speech. Don’t switch between overly formal and informal phrases without a clear reason.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “as discussed”:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| As discussed, but I don’t remember. | Following our meeting, we decided to postpone the launch, but let me provide a quick recap for context. | Assuming everyone remembers the discussion. Always provide a brief recap if there’s any doubt. |
| Per conversation, we will proceed. | Regarding our conversation, we will proceed with the project as planned. | Using incomplete or grammatically incorrect phrases. Ensure your alternatives are grammatically sound. |
| As per the talk, things will change. | As we talked about, there will be some changes to the project timeline. | Using overly informal language in a professional setting. Choose alternatives that are appropriate for the context. |
| According to discussed, the plan is set. | According to our discussion, the project plan is finalized. | Misusing grammatical structures. “Discussed” is a past participle and needs an auxiliary verb or a preposition. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Choose the best alternative to “as discussed” for each sentence.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| We will implement the new software system, ____________. | (a) as discussed (b) as agreed (c) per talk | (b) as agreed |
| ____________, I’m sending you the presentation slides. | (a) As discussed (b) Following our meeting (c) Per conversation | (b) Following our meeting |
| The deadline for submissions is Friday, ____________. | (a) as discussed (b) as mentioned in my email (c) per the talk | (b) as mentioned in my email |
| We have decided to proceed with the expansion project, ____________. | (a) as discussed (b) based on our decision (c) per conversation | (b) based on our decision |
| ____________, I’ve looked into the pricing options. | (a) As discussed (b) Regarding our conversation (c) Per agreed | (b) Regarding our conversation |
| All employees are required to attend the training, ____________. | (a) as discussed (b) per the memo (c) as agreed | (b) per the memo |
| ____________, we outlined the steps for the product launch. | (a) As discussed (b) In our last meeting (c) Per conversation | (b) In our last meeting |
| The supplier is responsible for shipping costs, ____________. | (a) as discussed (b) according to our agreement (c) as per talk | (b) according to our agreement |
| ____________, I’m planning to take a vacation next month. | (a) As discussed (b) As we talked
(c) Per our previous discussion |
(b) As we talked |
Advanced Topics
For those looking to further refine their communication skills, consider these advanced topics:
- Nuance: Explore the subtle differences in meaning between similar phrases. For example, “In accordance with our agreement” implies a more formal and legally binding context than “As agreed.”
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware that certain phrases may be more common or preferred in certain cultures or industries.
- Combining Phrases: Use multiple phrases to provide additional context and clarity. For example, “Following our meeting on Monday, as agreed, we will proceed with the revised marketing strategy.”
- Audience Analysis: Tailor your language to your audience’s level of understanding and expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it always necessary to avoid using “as discussed”?
No, “as discussed” is a perfectly acceptable phrase in many contexts. However, overusing it can make your communication sound repetitive. The key is to use it judiciously and to vary your language when possible.
How formal should my alternative phrases be?
The level of formality should match the context of the communication. Use more formal phrases in business correspondence and legal documents, and less formal phrases in casual team meetings.
What if I’m not sure if everyone was part of the discussion?
If there’s a chance that some people weren’t involved in the original discussion, provide a brief recap of the key points before using an alternative phrase like “as discussed.”
Can I use these alternatives in spoken communication?
Yes, all of the alternatives discussed in this article can be used in both written and spoken communication. However, be mindful of your tone and delivery when speaking.
Conclusion
Mastering alternative phrases to “as discussed” is a valuable skill for anyone looking to improve their communication. By understanding the nuances of different phrases and tailoring your language to the specific context, you can express yourself more effectively and professionally. This guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of various alternatives, along with examples, usage rules, and practice exercises. By incorporating these techniques into your daily communication, you can enhance your clarity, credibility, and overall impact.
