“By the way” is a common phrase for adding thoughts or shifting topics—but if you use it too often, it can feel repetitive or informal. Depending on the situation, alternatives like “Just so you know,” “As a side note,” or “In addition,” can add a smoother or more professional touch.
Whether you’re writing an email, chatting with a colleague, or crafting a blog post, having a few flexible substitutes helps you sound more thoughtful and intentional. This guide covers a range of expressions that work just as well as “by the way”—without sounding overused.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “By the Way”
- Structural Breakdown
- Categories of Alternatives
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “By the Way”
“By the way” is a common English idiom used as a discourse marker to introduce a topic that is either tangentially related to the current conversation or completely new. It serves to signal a shift in focus, often introducing an afterthought, a related piece of information, or a completely unrelated subject. The phrase indicates that the speaker is bringing up something that they’ve just remembered or that they consider relevant but not directly connected to the main topic at hand. Essentially, it’s a conversational segue, allowing for a smooth transition between different subjects.
Functionally, “by the way” acts as an adjunct, modifying the sentence or clause it introduces by adding supplementary information. It’s typically placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause, setting it apart from the preceding discourse. The phrase is quite versatile and suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of “by the way” is relatively simple. It’s a prepositional phrase consisting of the preposition “by” followed by the definite article “the” and the noun “way.” Grammatically, it functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the entire clause it introduces. When used in a sentence, it is usually set off by a comma to indicate a pause and to separate it from the main clause. The phrase itself doesn’t have any grammatical variations; it’s always used in this exact form.
The function of “by the way” is primarily pragmatic, serving to manage the flow of conversation. It signals to the listener that a shift in topic is coming and prepares them to receive new, potentially unrelated information.
This makes it a valuable tool for organizing thoughts and introducing relevant details without disrupting the overall coherence of the conversation. The phrase is highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of communicative situations, from casual chats to more formal discussions.
Categories of Alternatives
There are several categories of phrases and expressions that can be used as alternatives to “by the way.” These can be broadly classified into:
Adjuncts
Adjuncts are words or phrases that add extra information to a sentence but are not essential to its grammatical structure. They can modify verbs, adjectives, or even entire clauses.
In the context of replacing “by the way,” adjuncts serve to introduce additional, often tangential, information.
Discourse Markers
Discourse markers are words or phrases that help manage the flow of conversation. They signal relationships between ideas, indicate shifts in topic, or express the speaker’s attitude.
Many alternatives to “by the way” fall into this category, as they serve to guide the listener through the conversation.
Prepositional Phrases
Prepositional phrases consist of a preposition and its object (a noun or pronoun). Some prepositional phrases can function similarly to “by the way,” introducing related or unrelated information.
Subordinate Clauses
Subordinate clauses are clauses that cannot stand alone as a sentence. They often begin with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., “while,” “although,” “since”) and add additional information to the main clause.
Some subordinate clauses can be used to introduce tangential topics, similar to “by the way.”
Examples
The following tables present examples of different alternatives to “by the way,” categorized by the type of phrase or expression.
Adjunct Examples
This table provides examples of adjuncts that can be used instead of “by the way.” These adjuncts often function as sentence adverbs, modifying the entire clause they introduce.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Incidentally | Incidentally, I saw your brother at the grocery store yesterday. |
| Speaking of which | Speaking of which, did you remember to buy the milk? |
| On a related note | On a related note, the conference has been postponed. |
| Additionally | Additionally, we need to consider the budget implications. |
| Furthermore | Furthermore, the project requires additional resources. |
| Moreover | Moreover, the team needs more training. |
| In addition | In addition, we should explore alternative solutions. |
| As an aside | As an aside, I think the design could be improved. |
| Parenthetically | Parenthetically, I believe this is the best approach. |
| Tangentially | Tangentially, I heard about a new project starting up. |
| That reminds me | That reminds me, I need to call the doctor. |
| Come to think of it | Come to think of it, I haven’t seen John in a while. |
| While we’re on the subject | While we’re on the subject, what are your thoughts on the new policy? |
| On another note | On another note, the deadline has been extended. |
| As a side note | As a side note, the meeting will be held in the conference room. |
| To change the subject | To change the subject, how was your vacation? |
| Coming back to that | Coming back to that, I wanted to add something. |
| Just a thought | Just a thought, maybe we should try a different approach. |
| For the record | For the record, I disagree with that statement. |
| Just so you know | Just so you know, the office will be closed tomorrow. |
| Now that I think about it | Now that I think about it, I forgot to lock the door. |
| Thinking of something else | Thinking of something else, have you seen the new movie? |
| While on this topic | While on this topic, let’s discuss the budget. |
| To mention something else | To mention something else, the printer is jammed. |
| I just remembered | I just remembered, I need to pick up groceries. |
Discourse Marker Examples
This table provides examples of discourse markers that can be used to signal a shift in topic or introduce additional information.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Anyway | Anyway, I was saying that the project is on track. |
| So | So, I heard you got a new job. |
| Well | Well, I think we should consider all options. |
| Right | Right, let’s move on to the next item on the agenda. |
| Now | Now, where were we? |
| Then | Then, I realized I had forgotten my keys. |
| Also | Also, we need to address the issue of employee morale. |
| Too | I’m going to the store, and I need to get milk, too. |
| Besides | Besides, I don’t think it’s a good idea. |
| Furthermore | Furthermore, we need to consider the long-term effects. |
| Moreover | Moreover, the evidence supports our hypothesis. |
| Indeed | Indeed, that is a valid point. |
| In fact | In fact, the opposite is true. |
| Actually | Actually, I already finished the report. |
| Honestly | Honestly, I don’t know what to do. |
| Frankly | Frankly, I’m disappointed with the results. |
| Seriously | Seriously, this is a big problem. |
| Basically | Basically, we need to cut costs. |
| Essentially | Essentially, the goal is to improve efficiency. |
| To be honest | To be honest, I wasn’t paying attention. |
| In other words | In other words, we need to be more proactive. |
| That is to say | That is to say, we need to clarify our objectives. |
| For example | For example, we could try a different approach. |
| For instance | For instance, we could offer incentives. |
| On the other hand | On the other hand, it could be a good opportunity. |
Prepositional Phrase Examples
This table presents prepositional phrases that can be used similarly to “by the way,” often introducing related or tangential information.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| In passing | In passing, I heard about a new job opening. |
| On the subject of | On the subject of vacations, where are you planning to go this year? |
| With regard to | With regard to the budget, we need to make some adjustments. |
| In connection with | In connection with the investigation, we need to interview all witnesses. |
| With reference to | With reference to your letter, I am writing to confirm receipt. |
| Regarding | Regarding the meeting, it has been rescheduled. |
| Concerning | Concerning the issue of safety, we need to take immediate action. |
| As for | As for the other candidates, they are all highly qualified. |
| About that | About that, I wanted to apologize. |
| Speaking about that | Speaking about that, I have some news to share. |
| Related to that | Related to that, there is another issue we need to discuss. |
| In relation to | In relation to the previous topic, there is something I should mention. |
| With respect to | With respect to your concerns, we will address them promptly. |
| In terms of | In terms of the project timeline, we are on schedule. |
| On a side note about | On a side note about the conference, remember to book your accommodation. |
| With respect to that | With respect to that issue, we need to consider all angles. |
| In regards to | In regards to your request, we are still processing it. |
| Touching upon that | Touching upon that subject, I had a thought. |
| In the context of | In the context of this discussion, we should remember the original goals. |
| Per the conversation we had | Per the conversation we had, I’ve prepared a draft. |
| Following up on | Following up on our last meeting, I wanted to share some updates. |
| With attention to | With attention to detail, we can avoid future problems. |
| In light of | In light of recent events, we need to adjust our strategy. |
| In connection to | In connection to the email, I’ve attached the document you requested. |
Subordinate Clause Examples
This table presents subordinate clauses that can be used to introduce tangential topics, similar to “by the way.”
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| While I’m on the subject | While I’m on the subject, did you hear about the new regulations? |
| Now that I think of it | Now that I think of it, I need to pick up the dry cleaning. |
| If I may add something | If I may add something, I think we should consider a different approach. |
| Just to add to that | Just to add to that, the budget needs to be reviewed. |
| Since we’re talking about | Since we’re talking about vacations, where are you going this year? |
| To add to what you said | To add to what you said, the project has several phases. |
| Now that I remember | Now that I remember, I need to call my mother. |
| Thinking about it further | Thinking about it further, we should schedule another meeting. |
| If I recall correctly | If I recall correctly, the meeting is tomorrow. |
| As an additional point | As an additional point, the marketing strategy needs improvement. |
| If I might interject | If I might interject, I have a different perspective. |
| Since you mentioned it | Since you mentioned it, I have been meaning to ask. |
| To take a tangent here | To take a tangent here, have you seen the latest news? |
| If I could just interject | If I could just interject, that point is very relevant. |
| Just to elaborate on that | Just to elaborate on that, the plan has a few steps. |
| Since we’re discussing this | Since we’re discussing this, I wanted to bring up another point. |
| If I could just add | If I could just add, there are other factors involved. |
| Now that it comes to mind | Now that it comes to mind, I need to renew my license. |
| If it’s relevant to add | If it’s relevant to add, there have been some changes. |
| As a quick thought | As a quick thought, maybe we should consider a survey. |
| Just to mention something quickly | Just to mention something quickly, I’ll be out of office next week. |
| Since it’s somewhat related | Since it’s somewhat related, I have a question to ask. |
| In case it’s relevant | In case it’s relevant, I have some extra information. |
| If I can just jump in | If I can just jump in, I think we need to rethink this strategy. |
General Examples
This table provides mixed examples, combining different categories of alternatives to “by the way” to show how they can be used in various contexts.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Incidentally | I was at the library today. Incidentally, they have a new exhibit on local history. |
| Speaking of which | We were discussing travel plans. Speaking of which, have you booked your flights yet? |
| On a related note | We need to address employee morale. On a related note, the company picnic is next month. |
| Anyway | I was telling you about my weekend. Anyway, the concert was amazing. |
| So | We’re planning the team meeting. So, what time works best for everyone? |
| In passing | I saw John at the coffee shop. In passing, he mentioned he got a new car. |
| On the subject of | We were talking about the new project. On the subject of the project, the deadline has been extended. |
| While I’m on the subject | We’re discussing the budget. While I’m on the subject, we need to cut costs. |
| Now that I think of it | I need to go to the bank. Now that I think of it, I should deposit that check. |
| If I may add something | We’re discussing the marketing strategy. If I may add something, we should focus on social media. |
| That reminds me | I need to buy groceries. That reminds me, I’m out of milk. |
| Come to think of it | I haven’t seen Sarah in a while. Come to think of it, I should give her a call. |
| While we’re on the subject | We’re discussing the new policy. While we’re on the subject, what are your thoughts? |
| On another note | We finished the report. On another note, the presentation is next week. |
| As a side note | We finalized the contract. As a side note, the meeting location has changed. |
| To change the subject | I’m finished with the report. To change the subject, how was your weekend? |
| Just a thought | We’re discussing the design. Just a thought, maybe we should try a different color. |
| For the record | I disagree with your statement. For the record, I have a different opinion. |
| Just so you know | The office will be closed. Just so you know, the closure is due to maintenance. |
| Thinking of something else | We’re talking about the project. Thinking of something else, have you seen the new movie? |
| While on this topic | We are discussing the budget. While on this topic, let’s talk about funding. |
| To mention something else | We’re wrapping up the meeting. To mention something else, the printer is jammed. |
| I just remembered | I’m about to leave. I just remembered, I need to pick up the laundry. |
| Speaking about that | We were discussing the new software. Speaking about that, I need to learn it. |
| Related to that | We finished the presentation. Related to that, there’s another meeting next week. |
Usage Rules
When substituting “by the way” with other phrases, it’s essential to consider the context and the intended meaning. Each alternative carries its own nuances, and choosing the right one can significantly impact the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.
Formality: Some alternatives, like “incidentally” or “with regard to,” are more formal and suitable for professional or academic settings. Others, such as “anyway” or “so,” are more casual and appropriate for informal conversations.
Relevance: Consider the degree of relevance between the current topic and the new information you’re introducing. Phrases like “on a related note” or “speaking of which” imply a connection, while others, such as “to change the subject,” explicitly signal a shift to a different topic.
Emphasis: Some alternatives, like “moreover” or “furthermore,” add emphasis to the new information, suggesting that it’s important or significant. Others, such as “as an aside,” indicate that the information is less critical.
Placement: Most alternatives, like “by the way,” are typically placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause and set off by a comma. However, some phrases, such as “also” or “too,” can be placed within the sentence.
Avoiding Overuse: Just as with “by the way,” it’s important to avoid overusing any single alternative. Varying your language will make your speech and writing more engaging and natural.
Common Mistakes
Even experienced English speakers sometimes make mistakes when using alternatives to “by the way.” Here are some common errors to avoid:
Incorrect Word Choice: Choosing an alternative that doesn’t quite fit the context. For example, using “furthermore” when you simply want to change the subject.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| Furthermore, I saw your brother at the store. | Incidentally, I saw your brother at the store. |
Misplaced Commas: Forgetting to use a comma after the introductory phrase, or placing the comma in the wrong spot.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| Speaking of which did you remember to buy milk? | Speaking of which, did you remember to buy milk? |
Overusing Formal Alternatives in Casual Settings: Using overly formal phrases like “with regard to” in a casual conversation can sound unnatural.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| With regard to the party, are you coming? | Anyway, are you coming to the party? |
Using “Besides” Incorrectly: Confusing “besides” with “beside.” “Besides” means “in addition to,” while “beside” means “next to.”
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| Beside, I don’t think it’s a good idea. | Besides, I don’t think it’s a good idea. |
Using “In Regards To” Instead of “In Regard To”: The correct phrase is “in regard to,” not “in regards to.”
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| In regards to your question, I will answer it later. | In regard to your question, I will answer it later. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of alternatives to “by the way” with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate alternative to “by the way” from the list provided. Use each phrase only once.
Phrases: Incidentally, Speaking of which, On a related note, Anyway, So, In passing, On the subject of, While I’m on the subject, Now that I think of it, That reminds me
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. We were discussing vacation plans. __________, have you decided where you want to go? | Speaking of which |
| 2. I need to go to the supermarket later. __________, I need to buy some milk and eggs. | That reminds me |
| 3. We’re talking about the new project. __________, the deadline has been extended. | On the subject of |
| 4. I saw John at the coffee shop today. __________, he mentioned he got a promotion. | In passing |
| 5. We need to improve employee morale. __________, the company is planning a team-building event. | On a related note |
| 6. I was telling you about my weekend. __________, the movie was fantastic. | Anyway |
| 7. I need to call my dentist. __________, I have been meaning to schedule an appointment. | Now that I think of it |
| 8. We need to discuss the budget. __________, are there any questions? | So |
| 9. I was at the library today. __________, they have a new exhibit on local history. | Incidentally |
| 10. We’re talking about the new regulations. __________, did you hear about the changes? | While I’m on the subject |
Exercise 2: Sentence Transformation
Rewrite the following sentences using an alternative to “by the way.”
| Original Sentence | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|
| By the way, did you remember to bring your umbrella? | Speaking of which, did you remember to bring your umbrella? |
| By the way, I saw your sister at the gym yesterday. | Incidentally, I saw your sister at the gym yesterday. |
| By the way, the meeting has been postponed until next week. | On a related note, the meeting has been postponed until next week. |
| By the way, I need to pick up groceries after work. | That reminds me, I need to pick up groceries after work. |
| By the way, are you coming to the party on Saturday? | So, are you coming to the party on Saturday? |
| By the way, I heard you got a new job. | In passing, I heard you got a new job. |
| By the way, the deadline for the project is next Friday. | On the subject of the project, the deadline is next Friday. |
| By the way, did you hear about the new company policy? | While I’m on the subject, did you hear about the new company policy? |
| By the way, I forgot to lock the door this morning. | Now that I think of it, I forgot to lock the door this morning. |
| By the way, I wanted to apologize for my behavior yesterday. | To be honest, I wanted to apologize for my behavior yesterday. |
Exercise 3: Contextual Replacement
Choose the best alternative to “by the way” based on the context of the following dialogues.
| Dialogue | Best Alternative |
|---|---|
| A: “I’m going to the store to buy some bread.” B: “_____, can you pick up some milk while you’re there?” |
That reminds me |
| A: “We need to discuss the upcoming conference.” B: “_____, have you booked your hotel room yet?” |
Speaking of which |
| A: “I was talking to John yesterday.” B: “_____, he mentioned he’s looking for a new job.” |
In passing |
| A: “We need to improve our customer service.” B: “_____, we should offer more training to our employees.” |
On a related note |
| A: “I had a great weekend.” B: “_____, I saw a fantastic movie on Saturday.” |
Anyway |
| A: “We are going to have a meeting tomorrow.” B: “_____, what time does it start?” |
So |
| A: “I was at the park this morning.” B: “_____, I saw a new playground that was recently built.” |
Incidentally |
| A: “We need to talk about the budget.” B: “_____, are we going to stick to the current cost-cutting measures?” |
While I’m on the subject |
| A: “I need to renew my driver’s license.” B: “_____, I also need to renew my passport.” |
Now that I think of it |
| A: “We need to improve our marketing strategy.” B: “_____, we should implement a new social media campaign.” |
On a related note |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, exploring the subtle nuances of each alternative can further enhance your communication skills.
Pragmatic Implications: Consider the pragmatic implications of your choice. For example, using “actually” can sometimes sound confrontational, while “to be honest” can imply that you haven’t been truthful in the past.
Cultural Differences: Be aware of cultural differences in the use of these phrases. Some cultures may prefer more direct communication, while others may favor more indirect approaches.
Register: Pay attention to the register of your language. Using overly formal alternatives in a casual setting can sound pretentious, while using overly casual alternatives in a formal setting can sound unprofessional.
Combining Alternatives: Experiment with combining different alternatives to create more complex and nuanced transitions. For example, you could say “Speaking of which, and on a related note…”
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about alternatives to “by the way”:
Q1: Is it always necessary to use a comma after alternatives to “by the way”?
A: Generally, yes. Most alternatives, especially those that function as introductory phrases or discourse markers, should be followed by a comma to separate them from the main clause.
This helps to
clarify the structure and improve readability.
Q2: Can I use multiple alternatives in the same sentence?
A: While it’s grammatically possible, it’s generally best to avoid using multiple alternatives in the same sentence, as it can sound awkward or redundant. Choose the single best alternative that fits the context.
Q3: Are there any alternatives that should be avoided in formal writing?
A: Yes, some alternatives are too casual for formal writing. Avoid using phrases like “anyway,” “so,” or “well” in academic papers, business reports, or other formal documents.
Opt for more formal alternatives such as “furthermore,” “moreover,” or “in addition.”
Q4: How can I improve my understanding of these alternatives?
A: The best way to improve your understanding is through practice and exposure. Try using these alternatives in your own speech and writing, and pay attention to how native English speakers use them.
You can also read books, articles, and other materials to see these phrases in context.
Q5: Is “by the way” always inappropriate?
A: No, “by the way” is a perfectly acceptable phrase in many contexts. The goal of this article is not to eliminate its use but to expand your repertoire and provide you with more options for expressing the same idea.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “by the way” is a valuable skill for anyone looking to enhance their English communication. By understanding the nuances of different phrases and expressions, you can add depth, clarity, and sophistication to your speech and writing.
Remember to consider the context, formality, and intended meaning when choosing an alternative, and practice using these phrases in your daily conversations and written work. With time and effort, you’ll be able to seamlessly integrate these alternatives into your language and communicate more effectively.