“By the way” is one of the most common transition phrases in English. People use it every day in conversation, texts, and emails to introduce a new thought, add a side comment, or shift to a different topic. It signals that something new is coming without fully breaking the flow of what is already being said.
But using the same phrase every time makes your writing sound repetitive. It can also feel too casual in formal settings, or too stiff in friendly ones. The right transition phrase can change how your message lands completely.
Here is a quick contrast. A formal version might be: “Incidentally, the report is due on Friday.” An informal version might be: “Oh, and don’t forget the party’s on Friday!” Same idea, totally different feel.
This guide gives you 29+ powerful alternatives with full explanations, examples, and tone tips so you always use the right one.
What Does “By the Way” Mean?
“By the way” is a conversational transition phrase used to introduce a new thought, add extra information, or change the topic slightly. It usually signals that what follows is related but not the main point of the conversation.
Grammar form: It is a prepositional phrase used as a discourse marker or sentence connector. It does not change meaning based on the subject and works in almost any position in a sentence, though it most commonly appears at the beginning.
Synonyms include: incidentally, speaking of which, on a side note, also.
Opposite tone phrases include: most importantly, above all, the key point is, to get back to the main topic.
Sample sentences:
- “By the way, did you hear about the new office policy?”
- “The meeting went well. By the way, Sarah said she might be late tomorrow.”
When to Use “By the Way”
Spoken English: Very natural and widely used in daily conversation to shift topics or add something extra mid-discussion.
Business English: Works in informal meetings or casual team conversations, but can sound too relaxed in highly formal business writing.
Emails and Messages: Acceptable in friendly work emails or messages between people who know each other, but too casual for formal correspondence.
Social Media: Very natural in comment threads, captions, and casual posts where the writer wants to add a side thought.
Academic Writing: Not suitable. Academic writing requires formal transition words like “furthermore,” “additionally,” or “it is also noteworthy that.”
Professional Meetings: Fine in casual team meetings or brainstorming sessions, but should be replaced with something more polished in client presentations or board meetings.
Is “By the Way” Polite or Professional?
This phrase is polite and casual but not strongly professional.
- Polite: Yes, it is gentle and never sounds rude.
- Neutral: It sits between casual and semi-formal.
- Strong: No, it does not add weight or urgency.
- Soft: Yes, it softens a side comment so it does not feel like an interruption.
- Formal vs Informal: Leans informal. It is fine in semi-formal writing but should be avoided in formal letters, legal documents, or academic essays.
Etiquette tip: “By the way” works perfectly in friendly workplace chats and informal emails. Avoid it in reports, official correspondence, legal writing, or formal presentations where a more polished transition is expected.
Pros & Cons of Using “By the Way”
Pros:
- Very easy to understand for all English levels
- Sounds natural and conversational
- Works across texting, emails, and spoken English
- Softens a side point without interrupting the main message
- Familiar to both native and non-native speakers
Cons:
- Too informal for academic writing
- Overused, especially in casual writing
- Can make professional emails feel too relaxed
- Does not work in legal, official, or formal contexts
- Lacks specificity about the kind of information being added
Alternatives to “By the Way”
Incidentally
Meaning: Used to introduce extra information that is related but not the main point.
Explanation: This is the most direct formal substitute for “by the way.” It sounds polished and educated, making it a great choice when you want to add a side comment without losing a professional tone.
Grammar Note: Formal adverb, used as a sentence connector.
Example Sentence: “The project is running on schedule. Incidentally, the client has requested a brief update call.”
Best Use: Formal emails, business writing, professional conversation.
Worst Use: Casual texts or friendly chats where it may sound stiff.
Tone: Formal, Professional
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 9
Replaceability Tip: Use this whenever you want to sound professional while still adding a side note.
On a Side Note
Meaning: Introducing something that is extra or slightly off the main topic.
Explanation: This phrase clearly signals that the next point is not the main focus. It is polite, widely used, and works in both professional and semi-formal settings.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase used as a discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “The budget has been approved. On a side note, we should plan the team lunch soon.”
Best Use: Semi-formal emails, workplace chats, team conversations.
Worst Use: Strictly formal reports or legal letters.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 9
Replaceability Tip: Use this when you want to add a secondary thought while staying polished.
Speaking of Which
Meaning: A transition that connects a new thought to something just mentioned.
Explanation: This phrase links what you are about to say to the previous topic, making the shift feel natural and connected. It is conversational but not sloppy.
Grammar Note: Discourse marker, informal connecting phrase.
Example Sentence: “We’re planning the conference in March. Speaking of which, have you booked the venue yet?”
Best Use: Casual workplace emails, spoken conversation, friendly messages.
Worst Use: Formal written reports or academic essays.
Tone: Neutral, Casual
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Use when the new point connects naturally to what was just said.
As an Aside
Meaning: A brief remark that is separate from the main discussion.
Explanation: This phrase signals that what follows is a secondary comment, not central to the main argument or message. It works especially well in academic or semi-formal writing.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase, semi-formal discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “The proposal was well-received. As an aside, I noticed the formatting could be improved.”
Best Use: Semi-formal emails, professional writing, edited articles.
Worst Use: Casual texts or spoken chit-chat where it sounds overly formal.
Tone: Formal, Neutral
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Best when you want to note something minor without making it the focus.
While I Have You
Meaning: Seizing the moment to add something extra while already in conversation.
Explanation: This phrase is warm and natural, often used when you remember something important mid-conversation. It feels spontaneous rather than planned.
Grammar Note: Informal subordinate clause used as a transition.
Example Sentence: “Thanks for the update. While I have you, can you confirm the deadline?”
Best Use: Spoken conversation, informal workplace emails, phone calls.
Worst Use: Formal letters or written business proposals.
Tone: Casual, Warm
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Great for spoken moments or informal emails when you want to add something quickly.
Just to Add
Meaning: A simple, low-key way to bring in one more piece of information.
Explanation: This phrase keeps things brief and practical. It signals that the extra point is relevant but minor, making it useful in group discussions or email replies.
Grammar Note: Informal infinitive phrase.
Example Sentence: “The report looks good. Just to add, the figures on page four need updating.”
Best Use: Quick email replies, team chats, spoken follow-ups.
Worst Use: Formal business proposals or academic papers.
Tone: Neutral, Casual
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when making a short practical addition to an ongoing discussion.
In Other News
Meaning: A playful way to shift to a completely different topic.
Explanation: This phrase borrows from journalism and is often used humorously in conversation. It signals a full topic shift while keeping the mood light.
Grammar Note: Informal idiom borrowed from news language.
Example Sentence: “The deadline is sorted. In other news, Tom’s leaving party is this Friday!”
Best Use: Casual emails, friendly texts, social media posts.
Worst Use: Any formal or professional communication.
Tone: Playful, Casual
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 6
Replaceability Tip: Use only in very casual settings when humor fits the tone.
On Another Note
Meaning: Moving to a different but related point.
Explanation: This phrase smoothly changes the subject without sounding abrupt. It works well in both spoken and written English when you need to shift topics politely.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase, semi-formal discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “Thanks for the proposal. On another note, the client meeting has moved to Thursday.”
Best Use: Semi-formal emails, team meetings, friendly professional messages.
Worst Use: Formal legal or academic writing.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 9
Replaceability Tip: A reliable swap for “by the way” in most semi-formal situations.
That Reminds Me
Meaning: Something in the conversation triggered a new related thought.
Explanation: This phrase sounds very natural in spoken English. It mimics how real conversations flow, which makes it friendly and easy to use.
Grammar Note: Informal clause, conversational transition.
Example Sentence: “We talked about the budget. That reminds me, I still need to send the receipts to accounting.”
Best Use: Spoken conversation, casual emails, informal messages.
Worst Use: Written reports, formal business letters, academic essays.
Tone: Casual, Friendly
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Perfect when a topic naturally triggers a new thought.
One More Thing
Meaning: Adding a final extra point after the main message.
Explanation: This phrase is casual but effective. It was famously used by Steve Jobs in presentations, and it signals that something important or interesting is about to follow.
Grammar Note: Informal noun phrase used as a discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “I’ve sent you the files. One more thing — please review section three carefully.”
Best Use: Casual emails, conversations, presentations.
Worst Use: Formal letters where this phrasing appears too casual.
Tone: Casual, Direct
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when adding a final point that the reader should not miss.
Apropos of That
Meaning: “In relation to what was just said” — a very formal connection to the previous point.
Explanation: This is an elevated, sophisticated phrase borrowed from French. It is used in intellectual or formal discussions to connect a new point elegantly to the last one.
Grammar Note: Formal prepositional phrase, literary discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “The team discussed budget constraints. Apropos of that, I wanted to share a cost-cutting proposal.”
Best Use: Formal discussions, academic writing, refined professional emails.
Worst Use: Casual chats, texts, or informal workplace messages.
Tone: Formal, Sophisticated
Level: Advanced
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when you want to sound highly polished and connect your side point to the main discussion.
Not to Change the Subject But
Meaning: A polite way of changing the subject while acknowledging you are doing so.
Explanation: This phrase is self-aware and considerate. It lets the other person know a topic shift is coming while signaling that you respect the current conversation.
Grammar Note: Informal clausal transition.
Example Sentence: “Not to change the subject, but did anyone confirm the catering for Thursday?”
Best Use: Casual conversation, friendly workplace emails.
Worst Use: Formal emails or professional reports.
Tone: Casual, Polite
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when switching topics in a group conversation without sounding rude.
While We’re on the Topic
Meaning: Adding information that connects directly to the current subject.
Explanation: This phrase is excellent for staying within the same conversation thread while adding something new. It signals relevance and keeps discussions focused.
Grammar Note: Informal subordinate clause.
Example Sentence: “We’re reviewing the marketing plan. While we’re on the topic, let’s also check the social media calendar.”
Best Use: Team meetings, email threads, collaborative discussions.
Worst Use: Formal written reports.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when the side point is directly connected to the ongoing topic.
Additionally
Meaning: Adding something extra to what was already said.
Explanation: This is a clean, professional adverb that works in both formal and informal writing. It feels neutral and precise, making it one of the safest substitutes for “by the way” in written English.
Grammar Note: Formal adverb, sentence connector.
Example Sentence: “The slides have been updated. Additionally, I’ve included a summary page at the end.”
Best Use: Formal emails, business writing, academic papers.
Worst Use: Casual spoken conversation where it sounds too stiff.
Tone: Formal, Professional
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use whenever you need a safe, professional way to add more information.
Furthermore
Meaning: Adding a stronger, more significant point to what was already said.
Explanation: This word is more formal than “additionally” and adds weight to the new information. It suggests the added point supports or strengthens the main message.
Grammar Note: Formal adverb, academic discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “The design meets the client’s brief. Furthermore, it was completed two days ahead of schedule.”
Best Use: Academic writing, formal reports, professional proposals.
Worst Use: Casual conversation or informal texts.
Tone: Formal, Strong
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 6
Replaceability Tip: Use in formal written contexts where the added point supports your main argument.
It Is Also Worth Noting
Meaning: Flagging extra information the reader should pay attention to.
Explanation: This phrase is slightly formal and signals that the new information, while secondary, is genuinely important. It keeps the reader engaged with the additional detail.
Grammar Note: Formal impersonal phrase.
Example Sentence: “The system upgrade went smoothly. It is also worth noting that response times improved by 30%.”
Best Use: Business reports, formal emails, professional documentation.
Worst Use: Casual messages or spoken chit-chat.
Tone: Formal, Professional
Level: Advanced
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when the side note is genuinely worth the reader’s attention in a formal context.
I Should Also Mention
Meaning: Flagging something you almost forgot to include.
Explanation: This phrase feels honest and natural. It slightly suggests the speaker or writer realizes they nearly left something out, which gives it a spontaneous, human tone.
Grammar Note: Informal verb phrase.
Example Sentence: “The event starts at seven. I should also mention that parking will be limited.”
Best Use: Casual emails, friendly messages, semi-formal conversations.
Worst Use: Highly formal corporate or legal documents.
Tone: Neutral, Friendly
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Use when adding something that genuinely needs to be flagged but is not the main point.
Before I Forget
Meaning: Adding something quickly before the conversation ends or moves on.
Explanation: This phrase signals a quick, important addition. It often suggests that the speaker or writer almost forgot the point, giving it a real, human feel.
Grammar Note: Informal subordinate clause.
Example Sentence: “Great meeting today. Before I forget, can you send me the attendance list?”
Best Use: Casual emails, workplace messages, phone calls.
Worst Use: Formal reports or written professional documents.
Tone: Casual, Warm
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Best when you are wrapping up a message and adding a final practical point.
Coincidentally
Meaning: Mentioning something that happened to relate to the main topic by chance.
Explanation: This word adds an interesting element of timing or surprise. It signals that the connection between the main topic and the new point was unexpected or lucky.
Grammar Note: Formal adverb.
Example Sentence: “We were just discussing the merger. Coincidentally, I ran into the other team’s director this morning.”
Best Use: Professional stories, semi-formal emails, anecdotes.
Worst Use: When the connection was not actually a coincidence.
Tone: Neutral, Polished
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 6
Replaceability Tip: Use when the new point truly connects by chance to the current topic.
On a Related Note
Meaning: Adding information that connects directly to what was just discussed.
Explanation: This phrase is professional and natural. It tells the reader the new point is relevant without forcing the connection, making the conversation flow easily.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase, semi-formal discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “The training session went well. On a related note, we’ve updated the onboarding materials.”
Best Use: Professional emails, workplace meetings, semi-formal writing.
Worst Use: Academic papers where more precise transitions are needed.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 9
Replaceability Tip: Use when the new point links naturally to the current topic.
Just So You Know
Meaning: Sharing extra information casually, often as a heads-up.
Explanation: This phrase is very informal and slightly conversational. It is often used to share helpful context or a warning in a friendly, non-threatening way.
Grammar Note: Informal clause.
Example Sentence: “Just so you know, the boss is reviewing the reports tomorrow.”
Best Use: Casual workplace chats, friendly texts, informal email replies.
Worst Use: Formal emails, business proposals, professional reports.
Tone: Casual, Friendly
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use in casual settings as a soft heads-up or informal side note.
It Just Occurred to Me
Meaning: A thought appeared in your mind connected to the current discussion.
Explanation: This phrase sounds genuine and thoughtful. It signals that the new point came naturally, rather than being prepared in advance, which adds a warm, honest feel.
Grammar Note: Informal clause.
Example Sentence: “It just occurred to me that we haven’t sent the welcome email to the new client.”
Best Use: Casual conversation, informal work emails, meetings.
Worst Use: Formal reports or academic writing.
Tone: Casual, Warm
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when you want to sound natural and spontaneous in a casual setting.
While I Think of It
Meaning: Adding a point before the thought is forgotten.
Explanation: This phrase creates a sense of urgency and spontaneity. It suggests the speaker wants to share the information now before it slips away, making it feel natural and human.
Grammar Note: Informal subordinate clause.
Example Sentence: “While I think of it, please update the contact list before Friday.”
Best Use: Casual emails, team chats, informal spoken conversation.
Worst Use: Formal documents or structured reports.
Tone: Casual, Direct
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Use when naturally transitioning to a practical side point mid-conversation.
Along Those Lines
Meaning: Mentioning something that fits with or relates to what was just discussed.
Explanation: This phrase smoothly signals that the next point shares something with the current topic. It feels conversational but not too casual for professional settings.
Grammar Note: Informal prepositional phrase.
Example Sentence: “We’re improving internal communication. Along those lines, I’ve drafted a new meeting agenda template.”
Best Use: Workplace emails, team discussions, semi-formal writing.
Worst Use: Academic or legal documents.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when the side point is clearly connected to the theme being discussed.
I Almost Forgot to Mention
Meaning: Flagging something important that nearly got left out.
Explanation: This phrase has a natural, slightly self-deprecating tone that makes it sound honest and relatable. It builds trust because it feels unscripted.
Grammar Note: Informal verb phrase.
Example Sentence: “I almost forgot to mention — the venue changed to the downtown office.”
Best Use: Casual emails, spoken conversation, friendly messages.
Worst Use: Formal corporate letters or official reports.
Tone: Casual, Friendly
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Use when adding something genuinely important that almost slipped through.
Apart From That
Meaning: Adding a point that sits outside the main topic.
Explanation: This phrase introduces a separate thought without making it sound entirely unrelated. It works as a light transition that keeps the reader connected.
Grammar Note: Prepositional phrase, neutral discourse marker.
Example Sentence: “The review was mostly positive. Apart from that, we need to address the delivery delays.”
Best Use: Business emails, professional conversations, semi-formal writing.
Worst Use: Academic writing where “however” or “in addition” would be more precise.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when introducing a separate but relevant point in a professional context.
It Bears Mentioning
Meaning: Something deserves to be said even if it is not the main focus.
Explanation: This phrase is polished and slightly formal. It gives the side point extra credibility and signals that the speaker or writer considers it genuinely important.
Grammar Note: Formal impersonal phrase.
Example Sentence: “The contract was finalized today. It bears mentioning that the team worked exceptionally hard on this one.”
Best Use: Formal emails, professional reports, polished writing.
Worst Use: Casual texts or everyday chat.
Tone: Formal, Polished
Level: Advanced
Similarity Score (0–10): 7
Replaceability Tip: Use when the side point deserves attention and you want to give it some weight.
Relatedly
Meaning: Introducing a point that connects to the current topic.
Explanation: This single-word transition is clean, modern, and precise. It is increasingly popular in journalism, newsletters, and professional writing.
Grammar Note: Formal adverb.
Example Sentence: “The new policy launches next week. Relatedly, HR will be hosting an information session on Thursday.”
Best Use: Professional emails, newsletters, business articles.
Worst Use: Very casual messages or spoken chit-chat.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Intermediate
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: A great modern substitute in professional writing when the new point is connected to the main topic.
Also Worth Mentioning
Meaning: Flagging a secondary point that is still useful.
Explanation: This phrase adds extra information without overstating its importance. It feels balanced and professional, making it useful in workplace communication.
Grammar Note: Informal adjectival phrase.
Example Sentence: “The launch went smoothly. Also worth mentioning — the social media reach doubled.”
Best Use: Professional emails, business updates, team reports.
Worst Use: Very formal legal or academic writing.
Tone: Neutral, Professional
Level: Beginner
Similarity Score (0–10): 8
Replaceability Tip: Use when adding useful secondary information in a professional or semi-formal setting.
Mini Dialogue Examples
Formal Dialogue
A: “The annual report has been submitted to the board.”
B: “That is great news. Incidentally, the finance team has also completed the quarterly review. Would you like me to send it along?”
Informal Dialogue
A: “I’m heading out soon. Did you get the files I sent?”
B: “Yeah, thanks! Oh, that reminds me — are we still on for lunch Thursday?”
Business Email Example
“Hi James, the client presentation has been rescheduled to Wednesday at 2 PM. On a side note, the marketing deck has been updated with the new brand colors. Please let me know if you need the latest version. Best, Maya.”
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using “by the way” in formal letters or academic writing, where it sounds too casual
- Treating “incidentally” as always interchangeable with “by the way” — “incidentally” suggests a slightly stronger relevance to the topic
- Using “in other news” in a serious or professional email, as it sounds playful and may confuse the reader
- Starting every single email or message with “by the way,” which signals you always have afterthoughts and can reduce clarity
- Confusing “furthermore” with “by the way” — “furthermore” strengthens an argument, while “by the way” simply adds a side thought
- Saying “apropos of that” in casual speech, which sounds overly formal and can feel unnatural
- Using “just so you know” with superiors or in formal settings, as it can sound slightly dismissive or passive-aggressive depending on context
Cultural & Tone Tips
In UK English, “incidentally” and “as an aside” are common and well-respected in professional writing. British formal communication tends to prefer these elevated alternatives over casual phrases like “by the way,” which are reserved for everyday conversation.
In US English, both formal and informal alternatives are widely used, and context matters more than tradition. Phrases like “on another note” or “speaking of which” appear regularly even in business emails between colleagues who have a relaxed working relationship.
In casual social English, especially in texting and social media, phrases like “oh and,” “also,” “btw,” and “that reminds me” dominate. These are fast, friendly, and instantly understood. “BTW” itself has become so popular online that many learners know the abbreviation before they learn the full phrase.
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Tone | Best Context | Professional Level | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incidentally | Formal | Business emails, formal writing | High | “Incidentally, the client has approved the budget.” |
| On a side note | Neutral | Workplace emails, team chat | Medium-High | “On a side note, the deadline moved to Friday.” |
| Speaking of which | Casual | Spoken conversation, friendly emails | Medium | “Speaking of which, did you book the venue?” |
| That reminds me | Casual | Conversation, informal messages | Low-Medium | “That reminds me, I need to send that invoice.” |
| Relatedly | Professional | Newsletters, business writing | High | “Relatedly, HR is hosting a session Thursday.” |
| Just so you know | Casual | Team chats, friendly emails | Low | “Just so you know, the meeting moved to 3 PM.” |
| Furthermore | Formal | Reports, academic writing | Very High | “Furthermore, costs have decreased by 15%.” |
Other Ways to Say “By the Way” to Someone
The phrase “by the way” is commonly used to introduce additional information, mention something related, or smoothly change the topic during a conversation. It’s natural, friendly, and widely understood in both spoken and written English.
However, repeating “by the way” too often can make your communication sound repetitive. Whether you’re writing an email, speaking with colleagues, or chatting with friends, using alternative expressions can make your language more engaging and polished.
Here are some excellent alternatives to “by the way”:
- Incidentally
- Speaking of which
- On another note
- While we’re on the subject
- Additionally
- Also
- Furthermore
- Moreover
- As an aside
- Before I forget
- Just so you know
- One more thing
- In addition
- As a side note
- Not to mention
When to Use These Alternatives
The best alternative depends on the context and your audience.
If you’re talking with friends or coworkers, casual phrases like “speaking of which,” “one more thing,” or “before I forget” sound natural and conversational.
In professional settings, expressions such as “additionally,” “furthermore,” “moreover,” or “on another note” help your communication sound polished and organized.
Choosing different alternatives keeps your conversations flowing smoothly while helping you sound more confident and articulate.
How to Say “By the Way” in a Professional Way
Although “by the way” isn’t considered unprofessional, it can sometimes sound too conversational in formal business communication. In emails, reports, or workplace discussions, it’s often better to use phrases that transition between ideas more smoothly.
Professional alternatives maintain a courteous tone while making your message easier to follow.
Here are several professional replacements:
- Additionally
- Furthermore
- Moreover
- In addition
- On another note
- I’d also like to mention
- As a reminder
- It is also worth noting
- I’d like to add
- Another important point is
- While we’re discussing this
- Regarding another matter
Professional Examples
Example 1
Additionally, I’ve attached the revised proposal for your review.
Example 2
On another note, our meeting has been rescheduled for Thursday.
Example 3
I’d also like to mention that the client approved the updated timeline.
Example 4
It is also worth noting that the project budget remains unchanged.
Using these alternatives creates a smoother transition between ideas while making your communication appear more professional and well-structured.
Formal Way to Say “By the Way” in an Email
Emails often require a more polished tone than everyday conversations. While “by the way” works in informal emails, formal correspondence benefits from more refined transition phrases.
Here are some formal alternatives you can use:
- Additionally
- Furthermore
- Moreover
- In addition
- It is worth mentioning that
- I would also like to mention
- Another point to consider
- Please also note
- As a reminder
- On a related note
- Regarding another matter
- It may also be helpful to note
Formal Email Examples
Example 1
Additionally, please find the updated contract attached for your review.
Example 2
Please also note that the submission deadline has been extended until Friday.
Example 3
I would also like to mention that the meeting location has changed.
Example 4
It is worth mentioning that all team members have completed the required training.
Replacing “by the way” with these formal alternatives makes your emails sound more professional, organized, and business-friendly.
Another Way to Say “BTW”
BTW is the abbreviated form of “by the way.” It’s commonly used in text messages, social media, and casual online conversations. However, it’s generally not appropriate for professional emails or formal writing.
If you want to avoid using BTW, here are several alternatives:
- By the way
- Incidentally
- On another note
- Speaking of which
- Before I forget
- One more thing
- Just so you know
- Also
- Additionally
- In addition
- Furthermore
- Moreover
When Should You Avoid “BTW”?
Avoid using BTW when communicating with:
- Clients
- Managers
- Professors
- Business partners
- Hiring managers
- Professional organizations
Instead, write the full phrase or choose a more formal alternative that matches the tone of your message.
“By the Way” Synonym Casual
In casual conversations, “by the way” helps introduce extra information naturally without interrupting the flow of discussion. Many informal alternatives sound even more relaxed and conversational.
Here are some casual synonyms:
- Speaking of which
- Oh, and
- One more thing
- Before I forget
- Just so you know
- Oh yeah
- Also
- Guess what
- While I remember
- On another note
- By the way
- And another thing
Casual Example Sentences
- Speaking of which, have you booked your tickets yet?
- Oh, and don’t forget to bring your laptop tomorrow.
- Before I forget, happy birthday!
- Just so you know, the restaurant closes early on Sundays.
These expressions work well in everyday conversations, text messages, and informal emails.
“By the Way” Formal
Although “by the way” is acceptable in many situations, formal writing often benefits from more structured transition words that improve readability and professionalism.
Some formal alternatives include:
- Additionally
- Furthermore
- Moreover
- In addition
- It is worth noting
- It should also be noted
- Another important point is
- As an additional point
- Regarding another matter
- On a related note
These expressions help connect ideas logically while maintaining a polished tone suitable for workplace communication, reports, presentations, and academic writing.
“By the Way” in a Sentence
Understanding how to use “by the way” in context makes it easier to include naturally in both spoken and written English.
Here are several examples:
- By the way, your presentation was excellent.
- By the way, have you seen the latest company announcement?
- By the way, I’ll be working remotely tomorrow.
- By the way, thank you for your support during the project.
- By the way, the meeting starts at 10 a.m.
- By the way, don’t forget to submit your report before Friday.
- By the way, I really enjoyed reading your article.
- By the way, could you send me the updated file?
In most cases, “by the way” appears at the beginning of a sentence, but it can also be placed in the middle when introducing additional information naturally.
“By the Way” in Short Form
The most common short form of “by the way” is BTW.
BTW (bee tee double-you)
BTW is widely used in:
- Text messages
- Online chats
- Social media posts
- Instant messaging apps
- Informal conversations
Example Sentences Using “BTW”
- BTW, I’ll arrive around 7 p.m.
- BTW, thanks for sending the documents.
- BTW, did you finish the assignment?
- BTW, I’ll call you after the meeting.
Is “BTW” Professional?
Generally, no. While BTW is perfectly acceptable in informal communication, professional emails and business correspondence should avoid abbreviations unless they’re commonly accepted within your organization. Writing “by the way,” “additionally,” or “on another note” presents a more polished and professional image.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I say instead of “by the way”?
You can say incidentally, speaking of that, on another note, while we’re talking, before I forget, or as an aside, depending on whether you want your conversation to sound casual, professional, or formal.
What can I say instead of btw?
Instead of btw, use by the way, incidentally, before I forget, on another note, or while we’re discussing this to make your writing clearer, more polished, and appropriate for different audiences.
What is another word for along the way?
Other ways to say along the way include during the journey, throughout the process, as time went on, over the course of, in the meantime, or throughout the experience, each emphasizing gradual progress or events over time.
What is a nicer way to say by the way?
A nicer and more thoughtful alternative to by the way is before I forget, I’d also like to mention, while we’re on the topic, speaking of which, or just as a quick note, as these phrases create a smoother, more considerate transition in both conversations and professional writing.
Conclusion
Knowing when to use “by the way” and when to choose something better will make your English sound more natural, more professional, and more polished. Casual alternatives like “that reminds me” work beautifully in everyday talk. Formal alternatives like “incidentally” or “it bears mentioning” elevate your business writing instantly. The key is always matching the phrase to the moment. Pick one new alternative each week, use it in a real message, and you will build a confident, flexible vocabulary that impresses readers and listeners alike.
Riaz Ahmad is the founder and writer at DefineGrammar.com, dedicated to simplifying English grammar for students and writers worldwide. With a passion for language, he breaks down complex grammar rules into clear, practical lessons, helping readers write with confidence and clarity every day.
