30 Other Ways to Say ‘By the Way’ helps you make every conversation feel more natural by choosing clearer alternatives that fit any situation with ease.
The phrase “By the Way” (by_the_way) is a common English expression used in conversation, conversations, speech, writing, emails, email, and discussions to introduce a new topic that is not directly related to the current subject.
It helps you add extra details, additional information, or a minor thought without disrupting the flow. This adverbial technique creates a smooth, natural transition, keeping the conversation flow connected while making the listener feel engaged.
From my experience editing business and personal content, this approach works best when you communicate clearly, because the right wording, tone, and expression convey meaningful points with a warm, thoughtful, and friendly touch.
This guide features 30+ human-sounding choices with explained meanings, usage, tips, and examples to help you adapt your communication for everyday, informal, academic, professional emails, academic writing, written communication, fluent communication, and conversational situations.
You can change your expression slightly, mention something you almost forgot, share ideas, updates, or speak incidentally or apropos, while avoiding repetitive wording and becoming clearer, more confident, and more fluent through helpful, careful, and dynamic communication. The meaning of each option is presented in a way that makes it easy to understand and apply in real-life situations.
Quick Answer
“By the way” is a common phrase for introducing an extra thought, related detail, or gentle topic change, but using the same expression repeatedly can make your writing sound predictable or too casual. Choosing alternatives such as “on a side note,” “before I forget,” “while I have you,” “speaking of which,” or “as a quick update” helps your conversations and emails feel smoother, more engaging, and better suited to both personal and professional situations. Selecting the right phrase adds clarity, improves flow, and makes your message sound more natural and intentional.
What Does “By the Way” Mean?
The phrase “by the way” is a common conversational idiom used to introduce a new topic, an incidental thought, or an additional piece of information that may not directly connect to the primary subject being discussed. It acts as a verbal bridge, signaling to the listener or reader that what follows is a side note or a secondary thought. While practical, it often serves as a quick shortcut to shift directions without disrupting the main flow of a conversation.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “By the Way”?
Yes, it is generally considered polite and acceptable in everyday conversation and informal business settings. However, in strictly formal, high-stakes, or executive communication, “by the way” can occasionally come across as too casual, offhanded, or scattered. While it isn’t inherently rude, relying on it in professional emails might make an important point seem like an afterthought. Using more structured or warm alternatives ensures your message remains polished, respectful, and clear.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using “By the Way”
Understanding when to use or replace this phrase helps you communicate with greater intentionality.
Advantages
- Eases Transitions: It provides a seamless, casual way to pivot to a new topic without creating an awkward silence.
- Reduces Pressure: Framing a request or question as a side note lowers the pressure on the recipient.
- Friendly and Approachable: It keeps the tone light, relaxed, and conversational.
Disadvantages
- Can Lessen Importance: It may make crucial information seem like an unimportant afterthought.
- Feels Too Informal: In professional reports or executive emails, it can lower the polish of your writing.
- Risk of Overuse: Repeating it multiple times in a single conversation makes writing feel disjointed.
Synonyms for “By the Way”
- On a side note
- Speaking of which
- Before I forget
- As a quick update
- While I have you
- To touch on another point
- Incidentally
- That reminds me
- Just to bring up
- On that note
- Oh, and by extension
- A quick thought
- While we are on the topic
- Before we wrap up
- Just an extra thought
- On a personal note
- In addition to that
- As an added thought
- Just a friendly reminder
- As a brief follow-up
- To add to what you said
- Oh, I almost forgot
- While it’s on my mind
- Just wanted to throw in
- On another brief note
- Changing gears for a second
- As a side thought
- To gently pivot
- Just as a head-up
- To tie into this
1. On a Side Note
Meaning: Used to introduce a thought that is related to the conversation but slightly separate from the main topic.
Definition: An expression indicating an tangential observation or secondary remark.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase gracefully signals to the reader that you are stepping outside the primary thread of conversation for a moment. It allows you to share extra information without making the recipient feel derailed.
Scenario Example: “Thank you for sending over the quarterly reports! On a side note, I hope you have a relaxing weekend ahead.”
Best Use: Informal to mid-level professional emails, check-ins, and personal catch-ups.
Tone: Warm, thoughtful, and balanced.
2. Speaking of Which
Meaning: Used when something mentioned in the current conversation triggers a related thought.
Definition: A transition word linking a new remark directly to a word or concept just uttered.
Detailed Explanation: This phrasing shows active listening. It demonstrates that your incoming thought naturally flows from what the other person just shared, creating a harmonious and engaged rhythm.
Scenario Example: “I’m so glad your garden is blooming this spring. Speaking of which, how are those tomato plants doing?”
Best Use: Conversational catch-ups, friendly chats, and warm email threads.
Tone: Engaged, friendly, and natural.
3. Before I Forget
Meaning: Used to mention an important detail before it slips your mind or before ending a conversation.
Definition: An expression prioritizing a gentle reminder or secondary item before closing an interaction.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative adds a human touches to communication. It conveys openness and honesty, framing the additional point as a caring effort to stay aligned.
Scenario Example: “Before I forget, thank you so much for helping my daughter with her project yesterday!”
Best Use: One-on-one catch-ups, team check-ins, and informal emails.
Tone: Genuine, earnest, and considerate.
4. As a Quick Update
Meaning: Used to share a brief piece of fresh news or progress on another matter.
Definition: A professional transition introduced to deliver concise, current information.
Detailed Explanation: Rather than treating progress as a casual afterthought, this phrase frames the addition as useful, structured information, maintaining professional clarity while staying polite.
Scenario Example: “I’ve reviewed the venue options for next month. As a quick update, the caterer confirmed their availability.”
Best Use: Project management updates, professional emails, and client check-ins.
Tone: Clear, efficient, and courteous.
5. While I Have You
Meaning: Used when taking advantage of an ongoing conversation to address one more quick matter.
Definition: A phrase indicating that you are seizing a convenient moment in dialogue to bring up another topic.
Detailed Explanation: This shows respect for the other person’s time by resolving multiple items in one go, avoiding extra emails or calls later on.
Scenario Example: “Thanks for going over the schedule with me. While I have you, do you need any extra help with tomorrow’s presentation?”
Best Use: Phone calls, video meetings, and direct messaging chats.
Tone: Practical, considerate, and collaborative.
6. To Touch on Another Point
Meaning: Used to smoothly move from one topic to a distinct second topic.
Definition: A structured transitional phrase used to highlight an additional agenda item.
Detailed Explanation: Excellent for formal settings, this option keeps your writing organized and professional while ensuring that important secondary details get proper attention.
Scenario Example: “We have finalized the budget for Q3. To touch on another point, the team onboarding schedule is now ready for review.”
Best Use: Business correspondence, formal emails, and meeting summaries.
Tone: Professional, organized, and clear.
7. Incidentally
Meaning: Used to introduce a point that is connected to the conversation by chance or context.
Definition: An adverb used to introduce a statement that adds contextual or background information.
Detailed Explanation: This is a classic, slightly sophisticated synonym for “by the way.” It works well when introducing context that feels serendipitous or supplementary.
Scenario Example: “We are launching the campaign on Monday. Incidentally, that happens to be our company’s five-year anniversary!”
Best Use: Polished written communication, articles, and formal dialogue.
Tone: Elegant, articulate, and polite.
8. That Reminds Me
Meaning: Used when a word, idea, or event brings a relevant memory or task to mind.
Definition: A phrase indicating that the current discussion has sparked a useful connection in your memory.
Detailed Explanation: This brings a dynamic, relational quality to dialogue. It shows that you are actively building on shared ideas and memories together.
Scenario Example: “I loved reading that book you recommended. That reminds me, did you ever finish the sequel?”
Best Use: Casual conversations, friendships, and lighthearted team chats.
Tone: Warm, spontaneous, and friendly.
9. Just to Bring Up
Meaning: Used to introduce a gentle reminder or light topic without sounding pushy.
Definition: A soft introductory phrase used to highlight an extra matter gently.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase acts as a gentle cushion. It ensures that sensitive or extra topics are brought to the table softly, showing high emotional intelligence.
Scenario Example: “Just to bring up a small detail, let me know if you’d prefer a morning or afternoon slot for our catch-up.”
Best Use: Sensitive communications, team check-ins, and supportive catch-ups.
Tone: Gentle, supportive, and considerate.
10. On That Note
Meaning: Used to pivot to a related topic based on the idea just discussed.
Definition: A transitional statement connecting a preceding remark to a concluding or related thought.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase creates a logical thread between ideas, helping the conversation flow naturally from one point to the next without abrupt jumps.
Scenario Example: “The weather is supposed to be wonderful all weekend. On that note, are you still planning to go hiking?”
Best Use: Everyday conversations, written correspondence, and informal meetings.
Tone: Smooth, logical, and conversational.
11. Oh, and by Extension
Meaning: Used to mention an idea or consequence that grows out of the primary discussion.
Definition: An expression introducing an expanded thought that stems naturally from the main subject.
Detailed Explanation: This phrasing is ideal when showing how one topic gently touches another, revealing deeper thought and interconnectedness.
Scenario Example: “We are expanding our community outreach program. Oh, and by extension, we’ll be hosting a local workshop next month.”
Best Use: Strategic planning, thoughtful discussions, and detailed emails.
Tone: Insightful, expansive, and professional.
12. A Quick Thought
Meaning: Used to share a low-pressure idea or observation.
Definition: A brief introductory remark indicating an informal, creative suggestion.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for collaborative environments, this phrase signals that your input is meant to inspire, not overwhelm or demand immediate action.
Scenario Example: “A quick thought before you design the cover: what if we used warmer colors to feel more inviting?”
Best Use: Brainstorming sessions, creative feedback, and peer collaboration.
Tone: Light, collaborative, and creative.
13. While We Are on the Topic
Meaning: Used to explore a deeper or related detail while already discussing a subject.
Definition: A transition phrase anchoring a new remark to the topic currently under discussion.
Detailed Explanation: This keeps conversations efficient by addressing related ideas together while the recipient’s mind is already focused on the topic.
Scenario Example: “I’m glad we sorted out the project timeline. While we are on the topic, do you have the contact details for the main supplier?”
Best Use: Team syncs, collaborative discussions, and detailed emails.
Tone: Efficient, focused, and cooperative.
14. Before We Wrap Up
Meaning: Used to introduce a final thought before concluding a conversation or meeting.
Definition: A closing transition phrase reserved for last-minute additions before parting.
Detailed Explanation: This gives structure to the end of an interaction, signaling that the dialogue is closing while giving room for one last warm or important detail.
Scenario Example: “Before we wrap up, I just wanted to say how much I appreciate all your hard work this week.”
Best Use: Meeting closures, email endings, and warm goodbyes.
Tone: Thoughtful, respectful, and organized.
15. Just an Extra Thought
Meaning: Used to add a small, non-essential piece of value or feedback.
Definition: An additive phrase introducing supplementary, non-urgent information.
Detailed Explanation: It sets clear expectations that what follows is optional, relieving pressure on the listener to respond right away.
Scenario Example: “The report looks fantastic! Just an extra thought, adding a brief summary page at the beginning might be helpful.”
Best Use: Feedback sessions, peer reviews, and supportive mentoring.
Tone: Helpful, polite, and gentle.
16. On a Personal Note
Meaning: Used to transition from professional business matters to warm, personal care.
Definition: An expression shifting the conversation from formal or objective topics to personal human connection.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative builds genuine empathy. It shows that behind the work or agenda, you care deeply about the person as an individual.
Scenario Example: “Thank you for approving the invoices. On a personal note, how is your family doing after the move?”
Best Use: Professional emails with valued colleagues, clients, and long-term partners.
Tone: Empathetic, warm, and personal.
17. In Addition to That
Meaning: Used to layer another meaningful piece of information onto a current subject.
Definition: A formal conjunctive phrase used to add supplementary points.
Detailed Explanation: This creates an organized, additive flow in formal writing, ensuring every point made feels deliberate and well-considered.
Scenario Example: “The new software will improve processing speed. In addition to that, it offers enhanced security features.”
Best Use: Formal proposals, structured emails, and professional presentations.
Tone: Polished, professional, and structured.
18. As an Added Thought
Meaning: Used to offer a fresh perspective that came to mind after the initial discussion.
Definition: An expression introducing an extra layer of insight or reflection.
Detailed Explanation: This shows that you are continuing to think about the conversation even after it has ended, reflecting high engagement and care.
Scenario Example: “As an added thought to our call earlier, you might also enjoy reading that article on mindfulness I mentioned.”
Best Use: Follow-up emails, post-meeting check-ins, and thoughtful letters.
Tone: Reflective, caring, and attentive.
19. Just a Friendly Reminder
Meaning: Used to bring up an upcoming task, date, or favor with warmth and grace.
Definition: A gentle introductory phrase designed to prompt action without sounding demanding.
Detailed Explanation: It softens what could otherwise feel like a cold directive, turning a task prompt into a supportive check-in.
Scenario Example: “Just a friendly reminder that our team potluck is happening this Thursday at noon!”
Best Use: Community messages, team coordination, and polite nudges.
Tone: Warm, encouraging, and polite.
20. As a Brief Follow-Up
Meaning: Used to revisit a past conversation or check in on a previous topic gently.
Definition: A professional opening phrase used to reconnect regarding a prior topic.
Detailed Explanation: Highly effective in professional relationships, this phrase demonstrates accountability and continuity in your communication.
Scenario Example: “As a brief follow-up to our meeting yesterday, I’ve attached the revised budget template.”
Best Use: Client management, professional correspondence, and project tracking.
Tone: Courteous, focused, and professional.
21. To Add to What You Said
Meaning: Used to build directly upon an idea shared by someone else.
Definition: An affirming transition phrase validating a previous speaker’s input while expanding it.
Detailed Explanation: This is one of the most empathetic ways to pivot. It validates the other person first, creating a truly collaborative environment.
Scenario Example: “To add to what you said about flexible working hours, it really has boosted team morale overall.”
Best Use: Group discussions, creative meetings, and collaborative discussions.
Tone: Affirming, supportive, and inclusive.
22. Oh, I Almost Forgot
Meaning: Used when suddenly remembering a pleasant detail or key task near the end of a chat.
Definition: A spontaneous expression bringing up a missed detail in a warm way.
Detailed Explanation: It adds an authentic, human feel to conversation, capturing the natural pacing of real human interactions.
Scenario Example: “Oh, I almost forgot—congratulations on winning the community award this week!”
Best Use: Personal conversations, casual emails, and social catch-ups.
Tone: Enthusiastic, warm, and candid.
23. While It’s on My Mind
Meaning: Used to share a thought before the current context changes or the thought is forgotten.
Definition: An expression introducing a timely thought driven by immediate context.
Detailed Explanation: This shows transparency, letting the recipient know you are sharing ideas as they naturally occur to keep things authentic.
Scenario Example: “While it’s on my mind, make sure to take a few days off after this big launch wraps up.”
Best Use: Informal team check-ins, mentoring, and friendly messaging.
Tone: Caring, natural, and candid.
24. Just Wanted to Throw In
Meaning: Used to casually offer an idea without forcing it into the spotlight.
Definition: An informal phrase introducing a low-stakes contribution to a conversation.
Detailed Explanation: Highly effective in brainstorming, this choice helps keep team stress low while encouraging creative contributions.
Scenario Example: “I love the event outline! Just wanted to throw in that live music might be a fun addition.”
Best Use: Casual team collaboration, creative brainstorms, and group chats.
Tone: Relaxed, humble, and collaborative.
25. On Another Brief Note
Meaning: Used to quickly switch to a different, short topic before concluding.
Definition: A clear transitional marker signaling a fast shift to a distinct second item.
Detailed Explanation: It respects the recipient’s attention by signaling that the new topic will be short and easy to digest.
Scenario Example: “The system update is complete. On another brief note, please submit your time cards by Friday.”
Best Use: Office announcements, multi-topic emails, and brief check-ins.
Tone: Direct, polite, and concise.
26. Changing Gears for a Second
Meaning: Used to signal a clear mental shift from one subject to an entirely different one.
Definition: A visual, metaphorical transition phrase indicating a change in topic.
Detailed Explanation: By giving a clear verbal signal, this phrase helps the listener adjust their mental focus without feeling jolted by the topic change.
Scenario Example: “We’ve covered all the client accounts. Changing gears for a second, how are you feeling about your workload lately?”
Best Use: One-on-one meetings, management check-ins, and dynamic discussions.
Tone: Adaptive, considerate, and conversational.
27. As a Side Thought
Meaning: Used to offer an extra observation that isn’t central to the main discussion.
Definition: An introductory phrase marking an incidental or secondary remark.
Detailed Explanation: It clearly frames the addition as extra, allowing the primary focus of your message to remain crystal clear.
Scenario Example: “The workshop slides are ready. As a side thought, we might want to print a few physical handouts just in case.”
Best Use: Project review emails, casual feedback, and collaborative work.
Tone: Thoughtful, supplementary, and gentle.
28. To Gently Pivot
Meaning: Used to move from a heavy or sensitive topic to a lighter, complementary one.
Definition: An intentional phrase signaling a soft change in conversational direction.
Detailed Explanation: High in emotional intelligence, this phrasing acts as a soft buffer when navigating conversations that require deep care and empathy.
Scenario Example: “I know this project has been challenging. To gently pivot, let’s make sure we celebrate the milestones we did reach today.”
Best Use: Supportive check-ins, sensitive conversations, and team encouragement.
Tone: Empathetic, gentle, and intentional.
29. Just as a Heads-Up
Meaning: Used to give someone a warm, early notice about an upcoming event or change.
Definition: An informal phrase used to share proactive or preventive information.
Detailed Explanation: This conveys thoughtfulness by helping the other person prepare in advance without causing unnecessary alarm.
Scenario Example: “Just as a heads-up, the main conference room will be closed for maintenance tomorrow morning.”
Best Use: Team updates, informal warnings, and supportive scheduling notes.
Tone: Helpful, proactive, and friendly.
30. To Tie into This
Meaning: Used to connect a new point directly to the central topic being discussed.
Definition: A relational transition phrase connecting a new remark to the current theme.
Detailed Explanation: This shows deep listening skills, tying your new thought directly to what was previously said to keep the conversation meaningful and cohesive.
Scenario Example: “To tie into this idea of well-being, should we consider adding wellness days to the annual calendar?”
Best Use: Strategic meetings, collaborative discussions, and thoughtful email exchanges.
Tone: Cohesive, thoughtful, and constructive.
Read More: 30 Other Ways to Say ‘Thank You for Taking Care of This’
FAQs
1. What does “By the Way” mean?
“By the Way” is a common English phrase used to introduce a new topic, add extra information, or mention something that is related but not central to the current conversation.
2. Is “By the Way” appropriate in professional communication?
Yes, it is acceptable in many workplace conversations, professional communication, and emails. However, in formal or executive communication, alternatives such as “On a Related Note” or “As a Quick Update” often sound more polished.
3. Why should I use alternatives to “By the Way”?
Using different expressions keeps your writing and speech fresh, prevents repetition, and helps you match the tone of professional, academic, or casual conversations.
4. What are some professional alternatives to “By the Way”?
Professional alternatives include “On a Related Note,” “As a Quick Update,” “Before We Wrap Up,” “To Touch on Another Point,” and “As a Brief Follow-Up.”
5. Can “By the Way” be used in emails?
Yes. It works well in friendly and informal emails. For formal emails, consider using a more structured transition to improve clarity and professionalism.
6. How does “By the Way” improve conversations?
It creates a smooth transition between ideas, allowing you to introduce additional information without making the conversation feel abrupt or disconnected.
7. Is “By the Way” considered informal?
Generally, yes. While it is natural and friendly, it can sound too casual in highly formal writing or business communication.
8. When should I avoid saying “By the Way”?
Avoid using it when discussing critical information, formal reports, academic writing, or important business communication where a more direct transition is appropriate.
9. How can I choose the best alternative?
Think about your audience, purpose, and tone. Professional settings usually require formal transition phrases, while casual conversations allow more relaxed expressions.
10. Will learning alternatives improve my communication skills?
Absolutely. Expanding your vocabulary helps you improve your communication skills with greater clarity, confidence, professionalism, and variety in both spoken English and written communication.
Conclusion
While “By the Way” remains a useful and natural English expression, relying on it too often can make your communication feel repetitive. Learning these 30 Other Ways to Say “By the Way” gives you greater flexibility to match the tone, context, and purpose of every conversation, email, or presentation.
Whether you’re writing professionally, speaking casually, or communicating in academic writing and the workplace, choosing the right transition phrase makes your message clearer, smoother, and more engaging. With these alternative expressions, you’ll build stronger communication skills, sound more confident, thoughtful, and polished, and keep every conversation flowing naturally.
