by the way
incidentally, in addition
In Spanish
incidentally, in addition
Examples
- By the way, I won't be at the meeting tomorrow.
- By the way, did you hear about the new restaurant opening downtown?
- I found your book, by the way, it was under the couch.
When it's used
'By the way' is used to introduce an additional comment or change the subject. It's common in informal conversations and can appear in both speech and casual writing, such as personal emails.
The common mistake
A common mistake is using 'by the way' in overly formal contexts, such as a work report. In formal settings, it's better to use expressions like 'additionally' or 'incidentally'.
Related idioms
FROM WHAT YOU READ TO WHAT YOU SAY
Recognising it isn't the same as using it
Reading an idiom and understanding it is step one. Dropping it into a conversation, at the right moment, without stopping to think, is another — and that only comes from speaking.
Practise speaking→