by the way

/ˌbaɪ ðə ˈweɪ/
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A signal that adds a new point to a conversation.

Examples

  • Oh, by the way, the office will be closed Friday.
  • By the way, your keys are on the table.
  • I liked the film. By the way, where was it made?
  • By the way, did you get my email?
  • We can meet at six. By the way, Maya is coming too.

Similar words

on another note
incidentally
speaking of which

Meanings

New point in conversation

communication
neutral
Used to introduce a new topic or an extra piece of information that has just become relevant.

Examples

  • By the way, did you get my email?
  • I liked the film. By the way, where was it made?
  • By the way, your keys are on the table.
  • We can meet at six. By the way, Maya is coming too.
  • Oh, by the way, the office will be closed Friday.

Similar words

Etymology

By places something beside a route or course, while way names that course. The expression presents a remark as an aside.

FAQ

What does by the way mean?

It introduces an additional point or a new topic in conversation.

When is by the way used?

It is used when a speaker remembers a question or detail and adds it to what is being said.

How is by the way different from anyway?

By the way adds a side point. Anyway usually returns to the main topic or moves past a digression.

How is by the way used in a sentence?

It often comes at the start of a sentence, followed by a comma.

Is by the way formal?

It is neutral and suitable for everyday conversation and many work messages.

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