35 Ways to Say “By the Way” Professionally (With Examples)

What Does “By the Way” Mean?

“By the way” is an informal expression used to introduce a new point or piece of information that is somewhat related to the current conversation but not directly connected. It’s typically used to bring up something casually, often a side note or afterthought. While it works well in casual conversations and professional communication, there’s often a need for a more refined alternative.

When to Use “By the Way”

Use alternatives to “by the way” when you want to provide additional information that’s relevant but not directly related to the main topic. These alternatives are great for emails, meetings, and professional conversations where you want to add something important without derailing the conversation.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “By the Way”?

While “by the way” isn’t necessarily impolite, it’s often seen as informal. In many professional settings, especially when writing to clients or superiors, it’s better to choose a more polished expression. In verbal communication, depending on the context, “by the way” can be fine, but alternatives can help create a more polished and respectful tone.

Pros and Cons of “By the Way”

Pros:

• An efficient way to add information.
• Works well in casual settings or less formal professional environments.

Cons:

• Can sound too informal for certain audiences.
• Might be perceived as abrupt or unprofessional in serious discussions.

By the Way Synonyms:

• “I wanted to mention”
• “Just so you know”
• “As an aside”
• “I’d like to add”
• “On a related note”
• “As a quick follow-up”
• “For your reference”
• “To elaborate”
• “On a different note”
• “In addition”
• “In closing”
• “I should also point out”
• “I would like to bring to your attention”
• “For your awareness”
• “Just to clarify”
• “I’d like to mention”
• “I wanted to make you aware”
• “For your consideration”
• “As a reminder”
• “On a related topic”
• “I wanted to add”
• “Let me point out”
• “I’d like to draw your attention to”
• “Just a quick note”
• “In case you missed it”
• “If I may”
• “Before I forget”
• “Just to recap”
• “I believe it’s important to mention”
• “Allow me to elaborate”
• “In addition to that”
• “With that said”
• “To elaborate on that”
• “Here’s a quick update”
• “For further context”

“I wanted to mention”

Meaning:
A phrase to introduce something you feel is important to share.

Explanation:
This gives a sense of intention and consideration, showing that you are adding something for the recipient’s benefit.

Example:
“I wanted to mention that the meeting has been rescheduled for next week.”

Best Use:
In professional emails or conversations when introducing a side point or additional information.

Worst Use:
In overly casual or non-serious contexts.

Tone:
Thoughtful, intentional.

“Just so you know”

Meaning:
A polite way to introduce new information that may be useful but isn’t directly tied to the main conversation.

Explanation:
This expression works well for giving updates or additional context that might help the person understand the bigger picture.

Example:
“Just so you know, the project deadline has been moved up.”

Best Use:
When providing updates or clarifications.

Worst Use:
When introducing a completely irrelevant point.

Tone:
Informative, neutral.

“As an aside”

Meaning:
Used to introduce a side point or detail that might not be directly relevant but is still important.

Explanation:
This expression is more formal and can be used in both written and verbal communication to acknowledge the side note.

Example:
“As an aside, we may need to reconsider the budget allocation for the upcoming quarter.”

Best Use:
In formal presentations, meetings, or emails when adding supplementary information.

Worst Use:
In informal contexts or when the side note is trivial.

Tone:
Formal, informative.

“I’d like to add”

Meaning:
A polite way to introduce additional information to a conversation.

Explanation:
This phrase is more formal and often used to clarify or supplement the conversation.

Example:
“I’d like to add that we’ll be reviewing the project proposal next week.”

Best Use:
In meetings or when contributing to a discussion.

Worst Use:
In casual settings or when the addition is irrelevant.

Tone:
Professional, clear.

“On a related note”

Meaning:
This phrase introduces a thought or topic that’s linked to what’s currently being discussed.

Explanation:
It signals that the next piece of information is connected, though not the central point of the conversation.

Example:
“On a related note, the marketing campaign launch is scheduled for next month.”

Best Use:
When transitioning between related topics in a discussion or email.

Worst Use:
When the topics are completely unrelated.

Tone:
Smooth, informative.

“As a quick follow-up”

Meaning:
A phrase to introduce a brief piece of information that follows up on something previously discussed.

Explanation:
This conveys urgency or timeliness while also adding supplementary information.

Example:
“As a quick follow-up, the vendor has confirmed the delivery date.”

Best Use:
In emails where you’re providing a concise update.

Worst Use:
When the follow-up is unnecessary or redundant.

Tone:
Concise, respectful.

“For your reference”

Meaning:
This is used when sharing information that might be helpful or informative for the recipient.

Explanation:
It is often followed by a link, document, or other type of useful information.

Example:
“For your reference, I’ve attached the meeting notes from yesterday.”

Best Use:
When sharing useful information or resources.

Worst Use:
When the information is irrelevant to the recipient.

Tone:
Professional, helpful.

“To elaborate”

Meaning:
This introduces further clarification or additional details.

Explanation:
It’s an excellent way to expand on a point you’ve already made.

Example:
“To elaborate, we need to prioritize the development of the new product features before the launch.”

Best Use:
When providing more in-depth information during a meeting or discussion.

Worst Use:
When the added details are unnecessary or redundant.

Tone:
Detailed, professional.

“On a different note”

Meaning:
A way to transition to a different subject or topic.

Explanation:
This is helpful when you want to switch gears or bring up something that may not be directly related to the main conversation.

Example:
“On a different note, have we received the final budget approval yet?”

Best Use:
In meetings or emails when shifting topics.

Worst Use:
In conversations where a transition isn’t needed.

Tone:
Transitional, polite.

“In addition”

Meaning:
Used to add more information to the current discussion.

Explanation:
It is a smooth way to introduce something supplementary to the main point.

Example:
“In addition to our current goals, we should also consider expanding our market reach.”

Best Use:
In professional writing or conversations when adding relevant information.

Worst Use:
When the addition is irrelevant.

Tone:
Professional, smooth.

“In closing”

Meaning:
A phrase is used to signal the end of a topic or the start of concluding remarks, often leading to a final point.

Explanation:
“In closing” is perfect for summing up discussions and introducing a last-minute piece of information.

Example:
“In closing, I’d like to emphasize the importance of meeting our deadlines for the upcoming project.”

Best Use:
When wrapping up a meeting or report and adding one last important point.

Worst Use:
When the information is unrelated to the main point.

Tone:
Polite, professional.

“I should also point out”

Meaning:
A way to direct attention to an important detail that may not have been covered yet.

Explanation:
This phrase helps bring additional context or information to light in a professional way.

Example:
“I should also point out that the client’s budget has increased, which might impact our timeline.”

Best Use:
When you need to highlight an overlooked or essential piece of information.

Worst Use:
When it’s used excessively or when the information isn’t valuable.

Tone:
Helpful, and considerate.

“I would like to bring to your attention”

Meaning:
A more formal way to introduce information that requires the recipient’s focus or action.

Explanation:
It’s ideal for more formal communication, indicating the importance of the point you’re making.

Example:
“I would like to bring to your attention that the product launch has been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.”

Best Use:
In professional emails or formal discussions where you need to highlight an important update.

Worst Use:
When the information is trivial or unnecessary.

Tone:
Professional, urgent.

“For your awareness”

Meaning:
Used to provide someone with new information that they might need to know but isn’t urgent.

Explanation:
It signals that the recipient should know this information, but it doesn’t require immediate action.

Example:
“For your awareness, the client has expressed satisfaction with the current deliverables.”

Best Use:
In situations where you’re providing helpful context or background information.

Worst Use:
When the information isn’t relevant to the recipient.

Tone:
Neutral, informative.

“Just to clarify”

Meaning:
A phrase used to make sure that everyone is on the same page before moving forward with a discussion.

Explanation:
It’s perfect for clearing up any misunderstandings or ensuring everyone understands the point you’re about to make.

Example:
“Just to clarify, the deadline has been moved to Friday of next week.”

Best Use:
When you want to make sure that information is understood or clarified.

Worst Use:
When no clarification is necessary.

Tone:
Clear, precise.

“I’d like to mention”

Meaning:
A polite introduction to new or additional information.

Explanation:
This phrase is an invitation to add something relevant but not central to the main discussion.

Example:
“I’d like to mention that we’ve received positive feedback from our stakeholders regarding the recent presentation.”

Best Use:
In formal discussions or professional emails introduce important side notes.

Worst Use:
When the information is irrelevant or unnecessary.

Tone:
Polite, considerate.

“I wanted to make you aware”

Meaning:
A professional phrase to inform someone of something important or noteworthy.

Explanation:
This phrase is useful when providing updates or informing someone of a change.

Example:
“I wanted to make you aware that there’s a potential delay due to shipping issues.”

Best Use:
In business contexts when informing someone of an important development.

Worst Use:
When the information isn’t significant or needs to be shared in a more timely manner.

Tone:
Professional, informative.

“For your consideration”

Meaning:
Used to present information or suggest something for someone’s thought or review.

Explanation:
It’s often used when offering advice or bringing something to someone’s attention that they may need to think about.

Example:
“For your consideration, I suggest we extend the deadline to allow more time for testing.”

Best Use:
When providing recommendations or options.

Worst Use:
When the suggestion is irrelevant or unwanted.

Tone:
Suggestive, respectful.

“As a reminder”

Meaning:
Used to reintroduce a point that’s important or needs to be remembered.

Explanation:
This is great for making sure that no critical points are overlooked, especially in fast-paced environments.

Example:
“As a reminder, please submit your timesheets by the end of the week.”

Best Use:
To reiterate important deadlines or tasks.

Worst Use:
When there hasn’t been a previous discussion on the topic.

Tone:
Friendly, clear.

“On a related topic”

Meaning:
Introduces a new but related subject to the conversation.

Explanation:
It’s perfect for smoothly transitioning to a connected issue or idea.

Example:
“On a related topic, have we discussed the new client onboarding process?”

Best Use:
In meetings when you need to transition between topics that are connected.

Worst Use:
When the topics are not closely related.

Tone:
Professional, transitional.

“I wanted to add”

Meaning:
A polite way to introduce new information or make an additional point.

Explanation:
This phrase signals that you are adding value to the conversation or providing extra context.

Example:
“I wanted to add that the marketing team has already started developing materials for the campaign.”

Best Use:
When contributing to a discussion by offering additional insights or data.

Worst Use:
When the information is redundant or unnecessary.

Tone:
Professional, thoughtful.

“Let me point out”

Meaning:
Used to highlight something significant in the conversation.

Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes a specific piece of information that needs attention.

Example:
“Let me point out that the budget allocation for the project has increased by 20%.”

Best Use:
When drawing attention to something critical or needs to be addressed.

Worst Use:
When the point is trivial or irrelevant to the discussion.

Tone:
Assertive, informative.

“I’d like to draw your attention to”

Meaning:
A formal way to direct someone’s focus to an important topic or detail.

Explanation:
It’s a respectful, yet firm, way to indicate that the following information is crucial.

Example:
“I’d like to draw your attention to the upcoming meeting on Tuesday, where we will finalize the contract.”

Best Use:
In formal settings where the information being shared is time-sensitive or requires attention.

Worst Use:
When the point is not significant enough to warrant this formality.

Tone:
Professional, direct.

“Just a quick note”

Meaning:
A casual, brief introduction to an important piece of information.

Explanation:
This phrase is great for quickly sharing something noteworthy without bogging down the conversation.

Example:
“Just a quick note, the office will be closed next Friday for the holiday.”

Best Use:
When sharing short, important details that don’t require a lengthy explanation.

Worst Use:
When the information requires more depth or discussion.

Tone:
Friendly, concise.

“In case you missed it”

Meaning:
A way to reintroduce important information that may have been overlooked or forgotten.

Explanation:
It helps ensure that critical points are not overlooked, especially in busy or fast-moving environments.

Example:
“In case you missed it, the deadline for the submission is next Monday.”

Best Use:
When bringing attention to something important that needs to be remembered.

Worst Use:
When the information is outdated or irrelevant.

Tone:
Casual, and helpful.

“If I may”

Meaning:
A polite and somewhat formal way to introduce an opinion, suggestion, or piece of information.

Explanation:
This phrase adds a respectful tone to the conversation, ensuring that your input is received well.

Example:
“If I may, I suggest we review the project plan before the next team meeting.”

Best Use:
When offering a suggestion or input in a formal or professional setting.

Worst Use:
When no invitation to speak has been given.

Tone:
Respectful, polite.

“Before I forget”

Meaning:
A casual way to introduce something important that you don’t want to overlook.

Explanation:
This phrase ensures that the next point doesn’t get lost or neglected during the conversation.

Example:
“Before I forget, could you please send me the updated report by tomorrow?”

Best Use:
When remembering something important that needs to be mentioned quickly.

Worst Use:
When it’s not something that needs immediate attention or is already covered.

Tone:
Casual, urgent.

“Just to recap”

Meaning:
A way to briefly summarize or highlight key points from earlier in the conversation.

Explanation:
It’s useful for reviewing crucial details or confirming shared understanding before concluding.

Example:
“Just to recap, we agreed on a marketing budget of $10,000 for the upcoming quarter.”

Best Use:
When you want to make sure everyone is on the same page or review what’s been discussed.

Worst Use:
When there’s no need to summarize or the meeting is too informal.

Tone:
Clear, summarizing.

“I believe it’s important to mention”

Meaning:
A way to emphasize that something is noteworthy and requires attention.

Explanation:
This phrase helps you draw attention to a point that might otherwise be overlooked but is crucial.

Example:
“I believe it’s important to mention that the client has expressed a preference for the new proposal layout.”

Best Use:
When you need to highlight key facts or insights.

Worst Use:
When the information is irrelevant or not essential.

Tone:
Assertive, is important.

“Allow me to elaborate”

Meaning:
A formal way to explain something in more detail or expand on a previous point.

Explanation:
This phrase signals that you are offering more depth to a topic or explanation that might need clarification.

Example:
“Allow me to elaborate on the strategy behind our recent marketing campaign.”

Best Use:
When further explanation or clarification is necessary to ensure understanding.

Worst Use:
When the point is already clear or doesn’t need elaboration.

Tone:
Formal, explanatory.

“In addition to that”

Meaning:
A way to introduce supplementary information related to a previous point.

Explanation:
This phrase helps build on ideas and shows that you have more information to share.

Example:
“In addition to that, we will be offering a 10% discount for early sign-ups.”

Best Use:
When you need to present additional details or offer more context.

Worst Use:
When there’s no further information to add.

Tone:
Informative, supplementary.

“With that said”

Meaning:
A transition phrase is used to introduce a conclusion or another important point after presenting an idea.

Explanation:
It often signals that a new direction or perspective is being introduced after providing a point of view.

Example:
“With that said, I recommend that we proceed with the revised timeline for the project.”

Best Use:
When concluding a discussion or moving on to the next subject.

Worst Use:
When it’s used too frequently or without any valid reason.

Tone:
Transitional, conclusive.

“To elaborate on that”

Meaning:
A way to dive deeper into a point or to give more specific details.

Explanation:
It signals that you’re about to expand on a previously mentioned idea or point.

Example:
“To elaborate on that, we plan to roll out the campaign in stages over the next three months.”

Best Use:
When you want to provide more insight or make sure everyone has full context.

Worst Use:
When the additional details are unnecessary.

Tone:
Clarifying, detailed.

“Here’s a quick update”

Meaning:
A casual yet professional way to introduce new or updated information.

Explanation:
This phrase works well when you need to give a concise update without over-explaining.

Example:
“Here’s a quick update: the vendor has confirmed the new delivery date for the materials.”

Best Use:
In meetings or emails where a short and direct update is required.

Worst Use:
When an in-depth update is necessary.

Tone:
Brief, clear.

“For further context”

Meaning:
A way to provide more information that clarifies or expands on a previous point.

Explanation:
It’s perfect when the audience needs a deeper understanding of the subject.

Example:
“For further context, the client had originally requested a completely different design concept.”

Best Use:
When giving additional background information or providing clarity.

Worst Use:
When the context is already clear or not needed.

Tone:
Clarifying, detailed.

Conclusion