What part of speech is “according”

The word 'according' is classified as a part of the prepositional phrase 'according to,' where 'to' is the preposition and 'according' functions as an adverbial particle. This phrase is used to attribute a statement to a particular source or to indicate a standard or basis for a statement. The phrase 'according to' is used to reference a source of information or to indicate a standard by which something is judged or decided.

According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.

According to Sarah, the meeting has been postponed.

According to tradition, the festival is celebrated every spring.

'According to' is often used to introduce information from sources such as books, reports, experts, etc. It's essential to ensure that the source following 'according to' is credible or relevant to the context. Avoid using 'according to me' in English. Instead, use phrases like 'in my opinion' or 'I believe.'