Beyond “By the Way”: Expanding Your Conversational Toolkit

The phrase “by the way” is a common conversational filler, used to introduce tangential information or shift the topic slightly. While useful, relying on it too heavily can make your speech sound repetitive and less engaging.

Mastering alternative phrases not only enhances your communication skills but also allows you to express nuances and intentions more precisely. This article explores a variety of alternatives to “by the way,” providing detailed explanations, examples, and practice exercises to help you broaden your linguistic repertoire.

This guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, from intermediate to advanced. Native speakers looking to refine their communication style will also find valuable insights.

By understanding the subtle differences between these phrases, you can add depth and sophistication to your conversations and writing, making your message more impactful and interesting.

Table of Contents

• Definition and Purpose of “By the Way”
• Structural Breakdown
• Alternatives to “By the Way”
  • Introducing Tangential Information
  • Changing the Subject
  • Adding an Afterthought
  • Mentioning Something Relevant
  • Softening a Statement
• Examples of Alternatives in Use
  • Tangential Information Examples
  • Changing the Subject Examples
  • Afterthought Examples
  • Relevant Information Examples
  • Softening Examples
• Usage Rules and Considerations
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Definition and Purpose of “By the Way”

“By the way” is an adverbial phrase used to introduce a statement that is not directly related to the current topic of conversation. Its primary function is to signal a digression or a minor shift in subject matter.

It often indicates that the speaker has just remembered something they wish to share, or that they are adding a piece of information that, while not essential, might be of interest to the listener.

The phrase functions as a discourse marker, guiding the listener through the flow of conversation. It prepares the audience for a slight detour before potentially returning to the original topic.

“By the way” can also serve to soften a statement or make it seem less intrusive, particularly when introducing potentially sensitive or unexpected information.

In formal writing, “by the way” is generally avoided in favor of more sophisticated transitional phrases. However, it remains a common and acceptable idiom in informal speech and casual writing.

Structural Breakdown

The phrase “by the way” is composed of three words: a preposition (“by”), an article (“the”), and a noun (“way”). Its grammatical function is that of an adverbial phrase, modifying the entire clause or sentence that follows it.

It typically appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause, set off by a comma.

The structure is relatively fixed, although slight variations are possible in more informal contexts. For example, one might occasionally hear, “Oh, by the way…,” adding an interjection for emphasis or to signal a more casual tone.

However, the core structure – “by the way” – remains consistent.

The phrase does not inflect or change form based on tense or subject. It is a fixed expression, meaning its meaning and structure are always the same, regardless of the surrounding grammar.

Alternatives to “By the Way”

Numerous phrases can substitute for “by the way,” each with its own subtle nuances and appropriate contexts. The best alternative depends on the specific intention of the speaker: whether to introduce a completely unrelated topic, add an afterthought, or gently shift the conversation.

Introducing Tangential Information

These phrases are suitable when you want to introduce information that is somewhat related to the current topic but not directly central to it. They often suggest a connection, however slight, to what has already been discussed.

• Speaking of which… This phrase directly links the new information to something that was previously mentioned.
• On a related note… This indicates that the new information is connected to the current topic, even if only loosely.
• That reminds me… This suggests that the current conversation triggered a memory or association.
• While we’re on the subject… This implies that the new information is relevant to the general area of discussion.

Changing the Subject

These phrases are useful when you want to steer the conversation in a completely new direction, often with a more abrupt or noticeable shift.

• Speaking of something completely different… This explicitly acknowledges that you are changing the topic.
• Changing the subject… A straightforward way to signal a shift in conversation.
• On another note… Similar to “changing the subject,” but perhaps slightly less direct.
• Anyway… Can be used to signal a return to a previous topic or to introduce a new one after a digression.

Adding an Afterthought

These phrases are ideal for adding a piece of information that you suddenly remembered or that you consider to be a minor addition to what you have already said.

• I almost forgot… This emphasizes that the information is something you nearly overlooked.
• Just one more thing… This indicates that you have a final point to add.
• Another thing… Similar to “just one more thing,” but perhaps slightly less emphatic.
• Oh, and… A casual way to add a quick piece of information.

Mentioning Something Relevant

These phrases are used when you want to bring up something that is relevant or pertinent to the discussion, often to provide context or additional details.

• In that regard,… Signifies that you are about to add something that directly relates to what was said before.
• Concerning that,… Similar to “in that regard,” but may imply a more specific or focused connection.
• With respect to that,… Often used in more formal settings to introduce a relevant point.
• Regarding that,… A common way to link your next statement to the previous one.

Softening a Statement

These phrases can be used to make a statement less direct or potentially offensive, often by introducing it as a secondary thought or an aside.

• I should mention that,… Signals that what you are about to say is important but perhaps not the primary focus.
• It’s worth noting that,… Highlights the relevance or significance of the information you are adding.
• For the record,… Used to ensure that something is formally stated, often to clarify or correct a misunderstanding.
• Just so you know,… A friendly way to inform someone of something they might find useful or important.

Examples of Alternatives in Use

The following tables provide examples of how each alternative phrase can be used in context. Each table focuses on a specific category of alternatives, illustrating their unique applications.

Tangential Information Examples

These examples demonstrate how to use phrases like “Speaking of which…” or “On a related note…” to introduce information that is connected to the current topic, but not directly central to it.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
Speaking of which…	We were discussing travel plans, and speaking of which, have you renewed your passport?
Speaking of which…	They mentioned the new restaurant downtown, speaking of which, have you tried their pizza?
Speaking of which…	The company is focusing on innovation; speaking of which, I have a new idea to share.
Speaking of which…	We were talking about the weather; speaking of which, did you hear about the storm warning?
Speaking of which…	They mentioned their dog’s training; speaking of which, I need to enroll mine in a class.
On a related note…	We’re discussing budget cuts, and on a related note, we need to reduce travel expenses.
On a related note…	The project is behind schedule; on a related note, we need more resources.
On a related note…	We are talking about exercise; on a related note, remember to stay hydrated.
On a related note…	The company is expanding; on a related note, they are hiring new staff.
On a related note…	We are discussing environmental issues; on a related note, recycling is important.
That reminds me…	You were talking about your vacation, that reminds me, I need to book my flights.
That reminds me…	You mentioned the conference, that reminds me, I need to register.
That reminds me…	You said you like cooking, that reminds me, I need to try that recipe you mentioned.
That reminds me…	You spoke about the book; that reminds me, I need to return it to the library.
That reminds me…	You mentioned the concert; that reminds me, I need to buy tickets.
While we’re on the subject…	While we’re on the subject of education, we should discuss funding for schools.
While we’re on the subject…	While we’re on the subject of health, remember to get enough sleep.
While we’re on the subject…	While we’re on the subject of transportation, the new subway line is opening soon.
While we’re on the subject…	While we’re on the subject of pets, my cat is very playful today.
While we’re on the subject…	While we’re on the subject of movies, have you seen the latest blockbuster?
As an aside,…	The report details the sales figures, as an aside, marketing played a huge role in the success.
As an aside,…	The project is on track, as an aside, the team has been working very hard.
As an aside,…	The meeting was productive, as an aside, the new strategy was well-received.
As an aside,…	The presentation was informative, as an aside, the visuals were stunning.

Changing the Subject Examples

These examples illustrate how to use phrases like “Speaking of something completely different…” or “Changing the subject…” to make a clear break from the previous topic and introduce a new one.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
Speaking of something completely different…	We were discussing the economy, but speaking of something completely different, have you seen the new art exhibit?
Speaking of something completely different…	The meeting ran late, but speaking of something completely different, let’s grab lunch.
Speaking of something completely different…	We’ve been talking about work, but speaking of something completely different, how was your weekend?
Speaking of something completely different…	We were discussing the news, but speaking of something completely different, did you watch the game last night?
Speaking of something completely different…	They talked about politics, but speaking of something completely different, what are your plans for vacation?
Changing the subject…	We were discussing the project deadline, but changing the subject, did you hear about the promotion?
Changing the subject…	We were talking about the weather, but changing the subject, I wanted to ask you about your new car.
Changing the subject…	We are discussing the presentation, but changing the subject, are you coming to the party?
Changing the subject…	We were talking about the meeting, but changing the subject, have you seen the latest movie?
Changing the subject…	We discussed the assignment, but changing the subject, what are your plans for the weekend?
On another note…	We’ve been focusing on sales figures, but on another note, the team is doing a great job.
On another note…	We discussed the budget, but on another note, the office is being renovated.
On another note…	We talked about the event, but on another note, the new software is being installed.
On another note…	We were discussing the conference, but on another note, the training session is scheduled.
On another note…	We spoke about the company’s growth, but on another note, the new marketing campaign is launching.
Anyway…	We got sidetracked talking about old times, anyway, I need to finish this report.
Anyway…	We spent so long discussing the problem, anyway, let’s move on to the solution.
Anyway…	We were reminiscing about the past, anyway, what are your plans for the future?
Anyway…	We got lost in conversation, anyway, I need to get back to work.
Anyway…	We digressed into personal stories, anyway, let’s get back to the topic.
As a separate matter,…	We’ve covered the main points, as a seperate matter, I wanted to discuss the new policy.
As a separate matter,…	That completes the budget review, as a seperate matter, let’s talk about the upcoming event.

Afterthought Examples

These examples show how to use phrases like “I almost forgot…” or “Just one more thing…” to add information that you nearly overlooked or consider to be a minor addition.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
I almost forgot…	The presentation is tomorrow, and I almost forgot, remember to bring your laptop.
I almost forgot…	The meeting is at 2 PM, and I almost forgot, there’s a new agenda.
I almost forgot…	The deadline is next week, and I almost forgot, the instructions have been updated.
I almost forgot…	The event is on Saturday, and I almost forgot, bring your ID.
I almost forgot…	The class starts soon, and I almost forgot, the textbook has been revised.
Just one more thing…	The report is finished, just one more thing, I need your signature.
Just one more thing…	The presentation is ready, just one more thing, can you review it?
Just one more thing…	The project is complete, just one more thing, let’s schedule a debriefing.
Just one more thing…	The document is finalized, just one more thing, I need your approval.
Just one more thing…	The plan is set, just one more thing, let’s have a backup strategy.
Another thing…	The car needs an oil change, another thing, the tires need to be rotated.
Another thing…	The house needs cleaning, another thing, the garden needs weeding.
Another thing…	The clothes need washing, another thing, the dishes need doing.
Another thing…	The book needs returning, another thing, the movie needs watching.
Another thing…	The task needs completing, another thing, the feedback needs addressing.
Oh, and…	I’m going to the store, oh, and I need to pick up milk.
Oh, and…	I’m making dinner, oh, and I need to buy some vegetables.
Oh, and…	I’m heading to the library, oh, and I need to return some books.
Oh, and…	I’m going to the park, oh, and I need to bring a blanket.
Oh, and…	I’m planning a trip, oh, and I need to book a hotel.

Relevant Information Examples

These examples demonstrate how to introduce information that provides context or additional details to the current discussion.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
In that regard,…	The company’s profits have increased; in that regard, we are considering bonuses for employees.
Concerning that,…	The budget needs adjustments; concerning that, we should review all departmental expenses.
With respect to that,…	The contract has been signed; with respect to that, we can begin the project immediately.
Regarding that,…	The study is still ongoing; regarding that, we expect to have preliminary results soon.
In connection with that,…	The event was a success; in connection with that, we are planning another one next year.
In that regard,…	The customer was not satisfied; in that regard, we need to improve our service.
Concerning that,…	The team is facing challenges; concerning that, we need to provide more support.
With respect to that,…	The project is behind schedule; with respect to that, we should allocate more resources.
Regarding that,…	The feedback was negative; regarding that, we need to make some adjustments.
In connection with that,…	The merger is complete; in connection with that, we need to integrate the systems.
Additionally,…	The report is detailed; additionally, it includes several recommendations.
Furthermore,…	The product is innovative; furthermore, it is environmentally friendly.
Moreover,…	The service is excellent; moreover, it is affordable.
Besides,…	The location is convenient; besides, it has ample parking.
Also,…	The feature is useful; also, it is easy to use.
Adding to that,…	The first point is well-argued; adding to that, the second point is even stronger.
Complementing that,…	The design is aesthetically pleasing; complementing that, it’s very functional.

Softening Examples

These examples illustrate how to make a statement less direct or potentially offensive by introducing it as a secondary thought.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
I should mention that…	The project is due tomorrow, I should mention that I need your section by noon.
It’s worth noting that…	The company is undergoing changes, it’s worth noting that your role might be affected.
For the record…	There was a misunderstanding, for the record, I never agreed to those terms.
Just so you know…	The office is closing early today, just so you know, plan your commute accordingly.
I feel I should add,…	The situation is complex; I feel I should add, that not all information has been disclosed.
I should mention that…	The policy has changed; I should mention that it affects your vacation time.
It’s worth noting that…	The deadline is strict; it’s worth noting that late submissions will not be accepted.
For the record…	There was a miscommunication; for the record, I sent the email on Monday.
Just so you know…	The system is down; just so you know, you won’t be able to access your files.
I feel I should add,…	The decision is final; I feel I should add, that it was a difficult one to make.
Parenthetically,…	The report is detailed; parenthetically, it highlights several key issues.
Incidentally,…	The meeting was productive; incidentally, we met a new potential client.
As a side note,…	The presentation was well-received; as a side note, the visuals were stunning.
In passing,…	The conversation was casual; in passing, they mentioned a new project.
As a digression,…	The lecture was informative; as a digression, the professor shared a personal anecdote.

Usage Rules and Considerations

While the alternatives to “by the way” offer greater precision and variety, it’s crucial to use them correctly. Consider the following rules and guidelines:

• Context is key: Choose the phrase that best reflects your intention. Are you changing the subject entirely, or simply adding a related point?
• Formality: Some phrases are more formal than others. “With respect to that” is suitable for professional settings, while “Oh, and…” is more appropriate for casual conversations.
• Clarity: Ensure that the connection between the new information and the previous topic is clear, especially when using phrases like “On a related note.”
• Overuse: Avoid overusing any single alternative. Variety is key to maintaining engaging and natural-sounding speech.
• Punctuation: Most of these phrases are followed by a comma, especially when they begin a sentence or clause.

Remember that the effectiveness of these phrases depends not only on their correct usage but also on your overall communication style. Practice incorporating them into your everyday conversations to become more comfortable and confident in your ability to express yourself clearly and effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a good understanding of the alternatives to “by the way,” it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors to avoid:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
Speaking of completely different…	Speaking of something completely different…	The phrase is “something completely different,” not “completely different.”
On other note…	On another note…	The correct article is “another,” not “other.”
I almost forget…	I almost forgot…	The past tense “forgot” is required in this context.
Just one thing more…	Just one more thing…	The correct word order is “one more thing.”
That remind me…	That reminds me…	The verb “reminds” needs the “s” to agree with the subject “that.”
By the way, but…	Speaking of which,…	Avoid using “by the way” in conjunction with alternatives; choose one or the other.
On a related note, however,…	On a related note,…	The conjunction “however” is redundant.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you can avoid them in your own speech and writing, further improving your communication skills.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of the alternatives to “by the way” with these practice exercises. Choose the best alternative phrase to complete each sentence.

Exercise 1: Choose the best alternative to introduce a tangential piece of information.

Question	Possible Answers	Correct Answer
We were discussing the new marketing campaign, ________, have you seen the latest data?	a) Changing the subject b) Speaking of which c) I almost forgot	b) Speaking of which
You mentioned the conference, ________, I need to book my ticket.	a) On another note b) That reminds me c) Anyway	b) That reminds me
We’re talking about healthy eating, ________, remember to drink enough water.	a) Speaking of something completely different b) On a related note c) Just one more thing	b) On a related note
The team is working on the project, ________, they are collaborating very well.	a) Changing the subject b) While we’re on the subject c) As an aside	c) As an aside
You talked about your new pet, ________, I’m thinking of getting a dog.	a) On another note b) Speaking of which c) I almost forgot	b) Speaking of which
We were discussing the company’s growth, ________, we need to hire more staff.	a) On another note b) In that regard c) I almost forgot	b) In that regard
They mentioned the new software, ________, I need to learn how to use it.	a) Changing the subject b) That reminds me c) Anyway	b) That reminds me
We’re talking about exercise, ________, remember to stretch before and after.	a) On another note b) Speaking of something completely different c) Just one more thing	a) On another note
The meeting is about the budget, ________, they are also planning to discuss staffing.	a) Changing the subject b) While we’re on the subject c) As an aside	c) As an aside
You talked about your vacation, ________, I am thinking of going to Italy.	a) On another note b) Speaking of which c) I almost forgot	b) Speaking of which

Exercise 2: Choose the best alternative to change the subject.

Question	Possible Answers	Correct Answer
We’ve been discussing the project timeline, ________, have you made any weekend plans?	a) Speaking of something completely different b) On a related note c) Just one more thing	a) Speaking of something completely different
We were talking about the weather, ________, what’s new with your job?	a) Changing the subject b) That reminds me c) While we’re on the subject	a) Changing the subject
We spent too long on that topic, ________, let’s move on to the next item on the agenda.	a) On another note b) Anyway c) I almost forgot	b) Anyway
We’ve gone off on a tangent, ________, what were we originally discussing?	a) Speaking of something completely different b) Returning to the main point c) As a side note	b) Returning to the main point
The meeting is almost over, ________, are there any other urgent matters?	a) On another note b) Speaking of which c) I almost forgot	a) On another note
We’ve finished discussing sales figures, ________, let’s talk about customer service.	a) On another note b) That reminds me c) Anyway	a) On another note
We were talking about the event, ________, did you see the latest movie?	a) Speaking of something completely different b) That reminds me c) While we’re on the subject	a) Speaking of something completely different
We’ve covered the main topic, ________, are there any other questions?	a) On another note b) Anyway c) I almost forgot	a) On another note
We digressed from the initial topic, ________, what was the original plan?	a) Speaking of something completely different b) Returning to the main point c) As a side note	b) Returning to the main point
The discussion is over, ________, is everybody ready to leave?	a) On another note b) Speaking of which c) I almost forgot	a) On another note

Exercise 3: Choose the best alternative to add an afterthought.

Question	Possible Answers	Correct Answer
Remember to submit your report, ________, the deadline is Friday.	a) Speaking of which b) I almost forgot c) On another note	b) I almost forgot
I’m going to the grocery store, ________, do you need anything?	a) Just one more thing b) Changing the subject c) Anyway	a) Just one more thing
The presentation is ready, ________, please review it before tomorrow.	a) On a related note b) Another thing c) Speaking of something completely different	b) Another thing
I’m heading to the library, ________, I need to return some books.	a) Speaking of which b) Oh, and c) That reminds me	b) Oh, and
The meeting is confirmed, ________, don’t forget to bring your notes.	a) On another note b) I almost forgot c) While we’re on the subject	b) I almost forgot
The document is done, ________, I need your feedback.	a) Just one more thing b) Changing the subject c) Anyway	a) Just one more thing
I am going to the park, ________, do you want to join?	a) On a related note b) Another thing c) Speaking of something completely different	b) Another thing
I am heading to the store, ________, do you need anything?	a) Speaking of which b) Oh, and c) That reminds me	b) Oh, and
The presentation is tomorrow, ________, don’t forget your laptop.	a) On another note b) I almost forgot c) While we’re on the subject	b) I almost forgot
The plan is ready, ________ I need your approval.	a) Just one more thing b) Oh, and c) That reminds me	a) Just one more thing

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, exploring the nuances of these phrases in different contexts can further refine your communication skills.

• Cultural variations: The appropriateness of these phrases can vary across cultures. Research how similar concepts are expressed in different languages and cultural settings.
• Subtleties of tone: The tone of voice can significantly impact how these phrases are perceived. Practice conveying different emotions and intentions through your delivery.
• Combining phrases: Experiment with combining these phrases for more complex transitions. For example, “Speaking of which, and I almost forgot…”
• Formal vs. informal usage: Understand the specific contexts where certain phrases are more appropriate than others. Legal documents, for example, would call for a different register of introducing relevant information than a casual conversation between friends.

By delving deeper into these advanced topics, you can achieve a more sophisticated and nuanced understanding of the English language.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Mastering alternatives to “by the way” is a valuable step in enhancing your communication skills. By understanding the nuances of each phrase and practicing their usage in different contexts, you can express yourself more clearly, effectively, and engagingly.

This expanded vocabulary not only makes your speech more interesting but also allows you to navigate conversations with greater confidence and precision. Embrace these alternatives, experiment with their usage, and watch your communication skills flourish.