What is another word for by the sound of it/things?
Pronunciation: [ba͡ɪ ðə sˈa͡ʊnd ɒv ɪt slˈaʃ θˈɪŋz] (IPA) 
"When it comes to indicating an observation or an assumption made based solely on what one hears, the phrase 'by the sound of it/things' is often used. However, there are a variety of synonyms that can be employed to express this idea with greater variation. Some other phrases to consider are 'it appears that...,' 'judging from what I hear...,' 'by all accounts...,' 'if I'm not mistaken...,' 'if my ears don't deceive me...' and 'from what I understand...' Each of these substitutions can help add a level of nuance to your language, perhaps emphasizing the reliability or uncertainty of your assessment, highlighting how much information you have to go on, or framing your judgment in a particular tone".
