Finding the right words can make your conversations clearer, more natural, and more engaging. The phrase “by the way” is one of the most common expressions in English, used when someone wants to introduce a new topic, add an important detail, or mention something that may have been forgotten.
Whether you are chatting with friends, writing an email, participating in a meeting, or communicating on social media, knowing other ways to say “by the way” can help you express yourself more effectively. Although “by the way” works well in many situations, repeating it too often can make your communication sound predictable.
Fortunately, English offers several alternatives that serve the same purpose while creating different tones. Expressions such as “incidentally,” “on another note,” “speaking of which,” and “that reminds me” can help you introduce information smoothly. Some alternatives are suitable for formal business emails, while others are better for casual conversations with friends and colleagues.
Choosing the right expression depends on your purpose and audience. For example, “on a related note” works well when introducing information connected to the current discussion, whereas “before I forget” is useful when remembering something you need to mention. Similarly, “one more thing” can introduce an additional point without making your message sound overly formal.
In this guide, you will discover 25 other ways to say “by the way,” along with practical examples, tone descriptions, and explanations of when to use each expression. You will also learn whether the phrase is professional, understand its advantages and disadvantages, and find useful tips for choosing the best alternative. By the end, you will have a collection of natural English expressions to improve your everyday conversations, emails, and workplace communication.
What Does “By the Way” Mean?
“By the way” is a conversational expression used to introduce additional information, mention a related detail, or change the subject slightly. It helps speakers add something to a discussion without making the transition feel abrupt.
For example:
- “By the way, have you finished the report?”
- “I enjoyed the meeting. By the way, your presentation was excellent.”
- “By the way, don’t forget to bring your notebook tomorrow.”
In each example, the phrase introduces information that is additional to the main conversation. Depending on the context, it can introduce a related thought, a new subject, or a reminder.
Is “By the Way” Professional?
Yes, “by the way” can be professional, especially in friendly workplace conversations, informal emails, and everyday communication with colleagues. However, it may sound too casual when introducing an important point in a formal report, official letter, or sensitive business discussion.
For professional communication, consider alternatives such as:
- Incidentally: Suitable for introducing additional information in a relatively formal context.
- On another note: Useful when transitioning to a different subject.
- Additionally: Best for adding a supporting point to an existing discussion.
- One additional point: Appropriate for meetings, reports, and professional emails.
Example:
Casual: “By the way, I sent you the updated document.”
Professional: “Additionally, I have sent you the updated document.”
The best choice depends on whether you are adding a related detail, introducing a new topic, or reminding someone about something important.
Pros and Cons of Saying “By the Way”
Pros
- Easy to understand: Most English speakers recognize the expression immediately.
- Versatile: It works in conversations, messages, and informal emails.
- Natural transition: It introduces extra information without requiring a long explanation.
- Friendly tone: It can make conversations feel relaxed and approachable.
- Useful for reminders: It helps bring up details that might otherwise be forgotten.
Cons
- Can sound repetitive: Using it in every conversation may make your language less varied.
- Sometimes too casual: It may not suit highly formal communication.
- May create abrupt transitions: Introducing an unrelated topic without context can confuse listeners.
- Can weaken emphasis: Important information may seem like an afterthought if introduced casually.
- May sound unnecessary: In short messages, the extra phrase is sometimes redundant.
Master List: 25 Synonyms and Alternatives for “By the Way”
Here are 25 useful alternatives, grouped by their typical conversational purpose.
- Incidentally
- On another note
- Speaking of which
- That reminds me
- Before I forget
- One more thing
- Additionally
- Furthermore
- Also
- As an aside
- While we’re on the subject
- On a related note
- Just so you know
- For your information
- I should mention
- Another thing is
- Changing the subject
- To mention something else
- While I remember
- In addition
- Not to change the subject, but
- As a quick reminder
- Since we’re talking about it
- Something else worth mentioning
- Before we move on
These expressions are not always interchangeable. Some introduce related information, some add new points, and others signal a change of subject. The following examples explain how to use them naturally.
25 Other Ways to Say “By the Way” With Examples
1. Incidentally
Scenario: Use this expression when adding a secondary detail to a conversation or professional message.
Examples:
- Incidentally, the meeting has been moved to Thursday.
- Incidentally, I met your former colleague yesterday.
- Incidentally, the revised document is ready for review.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
Explanation: “Incidentally” introduces supplementary information and is often more formal than “by the way.”
2. On Another Note
Scenario: Use this phrase when transitioning from one topic to a different subject.
Examples:
- On another note, how is your new project going?
- On another note, we should discuss next month’s schedule.
- On another note, congratulations on your recent promotion.
Tone: Neutral, professional.
Explanation: “On another note” signals a change in topic without making the transition feel abrupt.
3. Speaking of Which
Scenario: Use this expression when something mentioned earlier reminds you of another relevant detail.
Examples:
- You mentioned your vacation. Speaking of which, did you book your tickets?
- We were discussing the presentation. Speaking of which, have you finished your slides?
- I heard you started a new course. Speaking of which, how are you finding it?
Tone: Conversational, friendly.
Explanation: “Speaking of which” connects your next statement to a topic that has already come up.
4. That Reminds Me
Scenario: Use this phrase when the current conversation brings another thought or reminder to mind.
Examples:
- That reminds me, I need to call the dentist.
- That reminds me, have you submitted your application?
- That reminds me, I still have your book.
Tone: Casual, natural.
Explanation: “That reminds me” introduces a thought prompted by something you have just heard or discussed.
5. Before I Forget
Scenario: Use this expression when you need to mention something important before it slips your mind.
Examples:
- Before I forget, please bring the signed form tomorrow.
- Before I forget, your appointment is scheduled for Friday.
- Before I forget, I wanted to thank you for your help.
Tone: Friendly, practical.
Explanation: “Before I forget” emphasizes that the information is worth mentioning now so it is not overlooked.
6. One More Thing
Scenario: Use this phrase when adding a final point, question, or request to a conversation.
Examples:
- One more thing, could you send me the updated file?
- One more thing, remember to lock the office door.
- One more thing, I really appreciated your feedback.
Tone: Casual, direct.
Explanation: “One more thing” introduces an additional point, especially when a conversation or message is nearly finished.
7. Additionally
Scenario: Use this word when adding another relevant fact or point in professional communication.
Examples:
- Additionally, we need approval from the finance department.
- Additionally, the report includes updated sales figures.
- Additionally, please review the attached guidelines.
Tone: Formal, professional.
Explanation: “Additionally” is particularly useful in business writing when presenting extra information in a clear, organized way.
8. Furthermore
Scenario: Use this expression when adding a supporting point to an explanation, argument, or formal discussion.
Examples:
- Furthermore, the proposal outlines a practical implementation plan.
- Furthermore, customer feedback supports the recommended changes.
- Furthermore, the updated process could reduce processing time.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
Explanation: “Furthermore” adds another point that strengthens or extends the information already presented.
9. Also
Scenario: Use this simple word when adding another detail, request, or piece of information.
Examples:
- Also, please remember to update your contact details.
- I also wanted to ask about tomorrow’s meeting.
- Also, your package should arrive by Monday.
Tone: Neutral, versatile.
Explanation: “Also” is a straightforward alternative that works in both casual conversations and professional messages.
10. As an Aside
Scenario: Use this phrase when briefly introducing a secondary comment that is not central to the main discussion.
Examples:
- As an aside, your latest article was very informative.
- As an aside, the office kitchen will be closed tomorrow.
- As an aside, I think we should revisit the original timeline.
Tone: Formal, thoughtful.
Explanation: “As an aside” indicates that the following remark is supplementary rather than the primary subject.
11. While We’re on the Subject
Scenario: Use this expression when you want to introduce another point connected to the topic being discussed.
Examples:
- While we’re on the subject, could we review the budget?
- While we’re on the subject, have you contacted the supplier?
- While we’re on the subject, I would like to discuss the deadline.
Tone: Conversational, professional.
Explanation: This phrase creates a smooth transition to another point that is relevant to the existing conversation.
12. On a Related Note
Scenario: Use this expression when adding information that is closely connected to the current subject.
Examples:
- On a related note, we should review the marketing strategy.
- On a related note, the client requested a revised proposal.
- On a related note, our training session starts next week.
Tone: Professional, neutral.
Explanation: “On a related note” signals that the next point shares a meaningful connection with the previous discussion.
13. Just So You Know
Scenario: Use this phrase when giving someone useful information they may not already have.
Examples:
- Just so you know, the office closes at four today.
- Just so you know, I have already contacted the supplier.
- Just so you know, the event has been postponed.
Tone: Casual, informative.
Explanation: “Just so you know” introduces information intended to keep someone informed, although it can sound blunt in certain contexts.
14. For Your Information
Scenario: Use this expression when sharing facts or details that someone may need for reference.
Examples:
- For your information, the revised policy takes effect next month.
- For your information, the invoice has already been processed.
- For your information, the training materials are available online.
Tone: Formal, informative.
Explanation: “For your information” works in professional settings but can sound defensive or stern if the context is tense.
15. I Should Mention
Scenario: Use this phrase when introducing a detail that deserves attention but has not yet been discussed.
Examples:
- I should mention that the deadline has changed.
- I should mention that parking is limited near the venue.
- I should mention that the client requested a shorter presentation.
Tone: Neutral, professional.
Explanation: “I should mention” introduces additional information while suggesting that the detail is relevant to the listener.
16. Another Thing Is
Scenario: Use this expression when adding another observation, concern, or point to a discussion.
Examples:
- Another thing is, we need to confirm the delivery date.
- Another thing is, the new design is easier to navigate.
- Another thing is, we have not received the final approval.
Tone: Casual, direct.
Explanation: “Another thing is” introduces a further point and is especially common in everyday speech.
17. Changing the Subject
Scenario: Use this phrase when deliberately moving the conversation away from its current topic.
Examples:
- Changing the subject, have you watched the new film?
- Changing the subject, how is your family doing?
- Changing the subject, are you planning to travel this summer?
Tone: Direct, conversational.
Explanation: This expression clearly signals a topic change, making it useful when the new subject is unrelated to the previous one.
18. To Mention Something Else
Scenario: Use this expression when introducing a separate detail that you want to bring into the discussion.
Examples:
- To mention something else, the venue has changed.
- To mention something else, we need volunteers for Saturday.
- To mention something else, I received your feedback this morning.
Tone: Neutral, polite.
Explanation: “To mention something else” prepares the listener for an additional point without requiring an elaborate transition.
19. While I Remember
Scenario: Use this phrase when you want to share a reminder or thought while it is still fresh in your mind.
Examples:
- While I remember, please send me your new address.
- While I remember, your package is waiting at reception.
- While I remember, we need to confirm next week’s appointment.
Tone: Friendly, informal.
Explanation: “While I remember” introduces information that the speaker does not want to forget to share.
20. In Addition
Scenario: Use this expression when introducing another fact or point that supports the existing information.
Examples:
- In addition, the team will receive updated training materials.
- In addition, we need to collect feedback from customers.
- In addition, the revised schedule includes an extra session.
Tone: Formal, professional.
Explanation: “In addition” is a useful alternative in reports, presentations, and emails when adding another relevant point.
21. Not to Change the Subject, But
Scenario: Use this phrase when introducing a different topic while acknowledging that the conversation is moving away from its current direction.
Examples:
- Not to change the subject, but have you heard from Sam?
- Not to change the subject, but we should discuss the travel arrangements.
- Not to change the subject, but did you submit the application?
Tone: Polite, conversational.
Explanation: This expression softens a topic change by acknowledging the existing discussion before introducing something new.
22. As a Quick Reminder
Scenario: Use this phrase when briefly reminding someone about a task, deadline, appointment, or important detail.
Examples:
- As a quick reminder, the meeting begins at nine.
- As a quick reminder, please submit your timesheet today.
- As a quick reminder, registration closes on Friday.
Tone: Professional, helpful.
Explanation: “As a quick reminder” is effective when you want to reinforce information without making the message unnecessarily long.
23. Since We’re Talking About It
Scenario: Use this expression when the current discussion provides a natural opportunity to address another connected point.
Examples:
- Since we’re talking about it, let’s review the budget.
- Since we’re talking about it, have you contacted the manager?
- Since we’re talking about it, I should share the latest update.
Tone: Casual, natural.
Explanation: This phrase links the next point to the ongoing conversation and makes the transition feel relevant.
24. Something Else Worth Mentioning
Scenario: Use this expression when introducing an additional detail that you consider useful or important.
Examples:
- Something else worth mentioning is that parking is free.
- Something else worth mentioning is the revised delivery schedule.
- Something else worth mentioning is that the software supports mobile access.
Tone: Informative, professional.
Explanation: This phrase highlights another potentially useful detail without suggesting that it replaces the main point.
25. Before We Move On
Scenario: Use this expression when adding a final detail or addressing a question before proceeding to the next subject.
Examples:
- Before we move on, does anyone have a question?
- Before we move on, I want to clarify one important detail.
- Before we move on, let’s confirm the next steps.
Tone: Professional, organized.
Explanation: “Before we move on” is useful in meetings and presentations when you need to address something before continuing.
Actionable Tips for Choosing the Best Alternative
Choosing the right alternative to “by the way” becomes easier when you consider the purpose of your message and the relationship you have with your audience.
- Match the tone to your audience: Use “that reminds me” with friends and “additionally” in formal reports.
- Consider the connection between topics: Choose “speaking of which” or “on a related note” when the new information connects to the current subject.
- Use direct language for reminders: “As a quick reminder” is often clearer than “by the way” when discussing deadlines or appointments.
- Avoid overly formal expressions in casual chats: Words such as “furthermore” can sound unnatural in friendly text messages.
- Keep important information prominent: Do not introduce urgent instructions as though they are minor afterthoughts.
- Vary your transitions naturally: Alternate between simple words, conversational expressions, and formal transitions when appropriate.
- Read your sentence aloud: If the phrase interrupts the flow, remove it or choose a more suitable alternative.
The most effective expression is the one that makes your intended meaning clear without distracting from the message itself.
FAQs
1. What is another word for “by the way”?
Common alternatives include “incidentally,” “also,” “on another note,” “speaking of which,” and “that reminds me.” The best option depends on whether you are adding information, introducing a related idea, or changing the subject.
2. Is “by the way” formal or informal?
“By the way” is generally conversational and informal, although it is acceptable in many workplace discussions and friendly professional emails. In formal writing, alternatives such as “additionally,” “furthermore,” and “in addition” may be more suitable.
3. How do you say “by the way” professionally?
You can say “additionally,” “incidentally,” “on a related note,” or “I should mention” in professional communication. For example, instead of writing “By the way, the deadline has changed,” you could write, “I should mention that the deadline has changed.”
4. Can I use “incidentally” instead of “by the way”?
Yes. “Incidentally” can replace “by the way” when you want to introduce supplementary information. However, it can sound more formal and is not always the best choice for casual conversations or when introducing a strongly related point.
5. What is a casual way to say “by the way”?
Casual alternatives include “that reminds me,” “before I forget,” “one more thing,” and “just so you know.” These expressions are useful in text messages, friendly conversations, and informal discussions.
Conclusion
Learning other ways to say “by the way” can make your English more varied, natural, and effective. From casual expressions such as “that reminds me” to professional alternatives such as “additionally” and “on a related note,” each phrase serves a slightly different purpose.
Choose your wording according to the situation, your audience, and the information you want to share. With regular practice, you can move between topics more smoothly, avoid repetitive language, and communicate with greater confidence in both personal and professional settings.
