When you say “By The Way” in a conversation, it is an adverbial phrase used to introduce a new topic not directly related to the current subject, helping you add extra, less important information smoothly without disrupting the flow, making conversations feel natural and engaging.
This technique is especially helpful when you want to say something incidentally or apropos, sharing points you just thought of. It allows you to add ideas that are synonymous with minor updates, keeping the conversation dynamic while staying connected to the subject.
What Does “By The Way” Mean?
By The Way is an adverbial phrase used to introduce a new topic or add extra, often less important, information that is not directly related to the current subject. It allows you to share thoughts incidentally or apropos, making a conversation feel dynamic without interrupting the main flow.
When to Use “By The Way”
You can use By The Way when you want to say something additional that complements the main conversation but is not critical. It is best for casual interactions, minor updates, or sharing information that is extra yet engaging.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “By The Way”?
Yes, By The Way is generally polite, as long as it is not overused. In professional settings, it is suitable for informal updates, small clarifications, or sharing incidental details, but avoid using it for highly important directives or formal communications.
Pros or Cons
Pros:
- Smoothly introduces new ideas
- Keeps conversation dynamic
- Adds minor details without disruption
Cons:
- Can dilute focus if overused
- Might appear casual in highly formal contexts
Incidentally
Meaning & Definition:
Incidentally is used to introduce something not directly related to the main discussion, often less important but worth mentioning.
Example:
“I loved your presentation. Incidentally, did you see the email from HR about next week?”
Best Use: Casual or semi-professional conversations where you add small but useful points.
Worst Use: Formal reports or emails where the point is critical.
Tone: Friendly, smooth, natural
Apropos
Meaning & Definition:
Apropos introduces information related tangentially to the current discussion, usually providing additional context.
Example:
“Apropos our earlier chat, I found a document that might help.”
Best Use: Semi-formal or professional settings where context matters.
Worst Use: Overly casual chats may sound pretentious.
Tone: Professional, informed, slightly formal
Just to Mention
Meaning & Definition:
Used to add something minor or less important without changing the main topic.
Example:
“Just to mention, the meeting has been moved to 3 PM.”
Best Use: Sharing small updates or reminders politely.
Worst Use: Critical points that require immediate attention.
Tone: Neutral, polite, casual
By the Way Speaking
Meaning & Definition:
Used to introduce a minor point incidentally while maintaining a casual tone.
Example:
“By the way speaking, I noticed the printer needs new cartridges.”
Best Use: Informal conversations, small updates.
Worst Use: Important directives or formal communication.
Tone: Friendly, casual
For Your Information
Meaning & Definition:
A polite way to add something less important or informative without expecting immediate action.
Example:
“For your information, the cafeteria will be closed tomorrow.”
Best Use: Semi-formal communications, sharing updates.
Worst Use: Overuse can feel condescending.
Tone: Neutral, polite
In Passing
Meaning & Definition:
Used to mention something quickly or incidentally during a conversation.
Example:
“I saw him in passing and thought you might like the news.”
Best Use: Casual mentions or brief updates.
Worst Use: Important announcements.
Tone: Informal, smooth
On a Side Note
Meaning & Definition:
Adds extra, often less important information that is related tangentially.
Example:
“On a side note, the project deadline has moved up.”
Best Use: Conversations where minor points are helpful.
Worst Use: Critical instructions.
Tone: Friendly, conversational
While We’re at It
Meaning & Definition:
Introduces additional points while staying within the conversation context.
Example:
“While we’re at it, can we review the budget for next month?”
Best Use: Casual or professional discussions.
Worst Use: When overloading a conversation with less important details.
Tone: Informal, inclusive
By Chance
Meaning & Definition:
Used to mention something incidentally or unexpectedly.
Example:
“By chance, I ran into our former colleague yesterday.”
Best Use: Casual storytelling or updates.
Worst Use: Formal reporting.
Tone: Relaxed, narrative
As an Aside
Meaning & Definition:
Introduces a comment that is related but less important than the main topic.
Example:
“As an aside, have you checked the new software update?”
Best Use: Adding context in conversations or presentations.
Worst Use: Overuse can distract.
Tone: Polished, conversational
Apropos of Nothing
Meaning & Definition:
Used to introduce a topic not related to the ongoing discussion.
Example:
“Apropos of nothing, did you see the game last night?”
Best Use: Casual conversations or storytelling.
Worst Use: Formal or professional meetings.
Tone: Lighthearted, informal
It Reminds Me
Meaning & Definition:
Used to introduce a new topic triggered by a previous thought.
Example:
“It reminds me, we need to submit the report by Friday.”
Best Use: Friendly reminders or connecting thoughts.
Worst Use: When introducing critical points abruptly.
Tone: Warm, casual
Speaking of Which
Meaning & Definition:
Links a previous point to a new, related topic, often less important.
Example:
“Speaking of which, did you finish the slides for tomorrow?”
Best Use: Smooth transitions in conversation.
Worst Use: Overly formal writing.
Tone: Conversational, natural
By the Way, I Should Add
Meaning & Definition:
Adds a new idea incidentally without disrupting flow.
Example:
“By the way, I should add, the meeting room has been changed.”
Best Use: Casual updates or reminders.
Worst Use: Formal instructions.
Tone: Friendly, informal
As a Side Note
Meaning & Definition:
Shares minor or less important information while staying connected to the main topic.
Example:
“As a side note, the printer queue is running low.”
Best Use: Casual conversation or semi-professional emails.
Worst Use: Critical updates.
Tone: Polite, smooth
Not to Forget
Meaning & Definition:
A way to add points that might otherwise be forgotten.
Example:
“Not to forget, we need to send the invoices today.”
Best Use: Reminders in casual or professional settings.
Worst Use: Overloading with minor details.
Tone: Neutral, helpful
Incidentally Speaking
Meaning & Definition:
Used to mention something incidentally while keeping the conversation flowing.
Example:
“Incidentally speaking, the team lunch is postponed.”
Best Use: Friendly, informal updates.
Worst Use: Important formal points.
Tone: Casual, smooth
While I Remember
Meaning & Definition:
Introduces a point triggered by memory, often less important.
Example:
“While I remember, the tickets need to be confirmed.”
Best Use: Casual reminders or updates.
Worst Use: Primary instructions or urgent matters.
Tone: Conversational, natural
By the Way, Just Noted
Meaning & Definition:
A way to add small thoughts incidentally.
Example:
“By the way, just noted, the schedule has shifted slightly.”
Best Use: Informal reminders or minor updates.
Worst Use: Important deadlines.
Tone: Friendly, smooth
Apropos, I Might Add
Meaning & Definition:
Adds a point tangentially related or less important to the topic.
Example:
“Apropos, I might add, the new design looks promising.”
Best Use: Semi-formal discussions.
Worst Use: Formal reports.
Tone: Polished, slightly formal
Just Thought I’d Mention
Meaning & Definition:
Used to say something casually incidentally.
Example:
“Just thought I’d mention, the elevator is out of order today.”
Best Use: Casual or friendly updates.
Worst Use: Urgent or important announcements.
Tone: Informal, approachable
Oh, By the Way
Meaning & Definition:
Adds an extra point or reminder incidentally.
Example:
“Oh, by the way, the deadline was moved up.”
Best Use: Casual conversation or friendly email.
Worst Use: Formal documents or meetings.
Tone: Friendly, casual
While We’re Talking
Meaning & Definition:
Introduces less important information naturally within a conversation.
Example:
“While we’re talking, can you check the calendar for next week?”
Best Use: Smooth updates during ongoing discussions.
Worst Use: Formal reporting.
Tone: Conversational, smooth
Just a Quick Note
Meaning & Definition:
Adds a minor, incidental piece of information without interrupting the main topic.
Example:
“Just a quick note, the Wi-Fi password has changed.”
Best Use: Casual reminders or short updates.
Worst Use: Important instructions.
Tone: Polite, casual
Notably
Meaning & Definition:
Introduces a point of interest or less important information incidentally.
Example:
“Notably, the team performed exceptionally well last quarter.”
Best Use: Highlights minor yet interesting points.
Worst Use: Core instructions or directives.
Tone: Polished, neutral
Final Thoughts
Mastering the use of By The Way and its alternatives can transform ordinary conversations into engaging, thoughtful exchanges. These phrases allow you to add extra, often less important information, share insights incidentally, and maintain a smooth conversational flow without disrupting the main topic. Using alternatives such as incidentally, apropos, or just to mention not only makes your speech more versatile but also helps convey subtleties in tone and intention. By consciously choosing the right phrasing, you can ensure your message is received as friendly, professional, or conversational depending on the context. In personal interactions, these expressions make small updates feel natural, while in professional settings, they help maintain clarity and politeness without overloading your audience. Practicing these alternatives also builds conversational confidence, allowing you to introduce ideas or reminders that might otherwise be overlooked. Remember, the key is balance: use these phrases to enhance communication, not to clutter it with unnecessary details. Mastering them ensures you convey information effectively while keeping your tone approachable and engaging. Over time, integrating these alternatives into your vocabulary will make your conversations richer, more precise, and more empathetic, creating stronger connections in both casual and professional dialogues.
FAQs
What does “By The Way” mean?
“By The Way” is an adverbial phrase used to introduce a new topic or add extra, often less important information that is not directly related to the current discussion. It allows smooth transitions in conversations and helps share incidental thoughts naturally without interrupting the flow.
When should I use “By The Way”?
Use it when you want to mention something minor or additional that complements the main topic. It works well for casual updates, small reminders, or points incidentally related to the conversation without shifting focus from the main subject.
Is “By The Way” professional?
Yes, it can be professional in informal workplace discussions or emails. It is best for minor updates or incidental points. Avoid overusing it in formal reports or critical instructions.
Are there alternatives to “By The Way”?
Yes, alternatives include incidentally, apropos, just to mention, on a side note, and as an aside. Each has subtle differences in tone, formality, and context.
Can “By The Way” be overused?
Yes. Frequent use may distract or make conversations feel cluttered. Use it strategically to introduce minor, incidental points without overwhelming the main topic.
How do I use it in writing?
In emails or messages, it can be used to add small updates or reminders. Place it at the beginning of a sentence to indicate a shift to a secondary point.
Does it change the tone of a conversation?
Yes, it creates a casual, friendly, or thoughtful tone depending on the context. Alternatives like apropos or incidentally may sound more formal.
Can I use it in presentations?
Yes, it helps introduce minor updates or related points incidentally without disrupting the main flow. Avoid excessive use in highly structured content.
What is the best alternative for professional settings?
Apropos or for your information are suitable. They convey additional points politely without sounding overly casual.
Can it be used for reminders?
Yes, phrases like just to mention or not to forget work perfectly for incidental reminders.
How do I keep it concise?
Keep your statement short and focused. Avoid combining multiple minor points, as this can reduce clarity and impact.
Is it suitable in text messages?
Yes, it is commonly used to add casual notes or minor updates without overwhelming the recipient.
Does it indicate importance?
Not usually. It often introduces information that is less important or incidental, but context can make it significant.
Can it help in storytelling?
Absolutely. Using it incidentally allows smooth transitions between main points and small anecdotes, keeping the story engaging.
How do I sound natural using it?
Practice using By The Way and its alternatives in casual conversations first. Adjust the choice of words and tone depending on whether the setting is formal, semi-formal, or friendly.
Muhammad Altaf is an English language specialist and professional content strategist with over 10 years of experience writing and teaching practical English usage, professional communication, and tone awareness. His work focuses on helping readers express ideas clearly, naturally, and confidently in real-world contexts.
