Accordingly means in a way that suits the situation; at the start of a sentence, it means therefore. The group was smaller, so we adjusted the layout accordingly: we changed it to fit. Accordingly, visitors should use the side gate: so that's what they should do. The word is formal and common in business emails.
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adjust / respond / act accordingly; Accordingly, + result
- The group was smaller than expected, so we adjusted the room layout accordingly.
- The entrance will be closed. Accordingly, visitors should use the side gate.
- Tell us if your arrival time changes, and we will update the schedule accordingly.
What changed
First versionThe guest list changed, so we updated the seating plan accordingly to the new list.
RevisionThe guest list changed, so we updated the seating plan accordingly.
Accordingly looks like according to, so it gets a to phrase: accordingly to the new list. But accordingly is a complete adverb: what to match is already clear from the first part. If you want to name the reference point, use according to: according to the new list.
According to means 'as stated by' or 'following', and always takes an object: according to the timetable. Accordingly means 'to match this' and takes none: The timetable changed, and we planned accordingly. Therefore also means 'so', but without the idea of adapting to circumstances.
Your turn
The forecast has changed, so please plan ___.
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accordingly — Plan needs no object here: what to take into account is already stated, the forecast has changed. That's accordingly; according to would need something after it.
Write a message to colleagues: something in the plans has changed, and you've adapted. Put accordingly at the end of the sentence.
Two more guests are joining us, so I've increased the food order accordingly.
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