22 Japanese ways to say “By the way”

When you want to casually slip in a bit of extra info during a conversation, “By the way” is your best friend. But did you know there are so many ways to say it in Japanese?

Whether you’re chatting with friends or writing emails, mixing up your phrases can make you sound natural and warm. It’s like adding little flavor bursts to your conversations.

In this article, we’ll explore 22 different ways to say “By the way” in Japanese, from casual to polite, and even some native-like expressions.

Each phrase comes with pronunciation guides and simple tips so you can remember and use them easily. Ready to add some sparkle to your Japanese chats?

Let’s dive in and discover how versatile “By the way” can be!

By the end, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your Japanese fresh and engaging.

Understanding “By the Way” in Japanese

“By the way” in English is often used to introduce a new topic or add extra information suddenly. Japanese has many phrases that do this in slightly different ways.

Some are casual, perfect for friends; others are more formal, great for work or polite conversation. There are also fun native-like expressions that feel very natural.

Knowing when and how to use each can help you sound more fluent and friendly.

Sometimes, using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.

It’s also helpful to listen to native speakers and mimic their tone and timing.

Practicing these phrases in real conversations will boost your confidence quickly.

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. ところで (Tokorode) – “By the way”

This is the most common and straightforward way to say “by the way.”

Tokorode literally means “at that place” but is used to smoothly change the subject or add something. It’s casual but polite enough for most situations.

It’s easy to drop into any conversation to politely shift gears.

Think of it as a gentle tap on the shoulder saying, “Hey, one more thing!”

A related phrase is それと (Soreto), which means “and also” or “besides.”

Using ところで regularly will make your Japanese sound natural and connected.

2. ちなみに (Chinami ni) – “Incidentally” or “By the way”

Chinami ni introduces additional info related to the topic, like a fun fact or extra detail.

It’s casual and often used when you want to add something interesting without interrupting flow.

Perfect for stories or sharing trivia!

Be careful not to overuse it, or it might feel like a lecture.

Example: “I love sushi. ちなみに, did you know there’s a famous sushi spot nearby?”

Chinami ni helps keep conversations lively and engaging.

3. そういえば (Sou ieba) – “Speaking of which”

Sou ieba is great when a previous topic reminds you of something else.

It literally means “if you say so,” making it a natural way to shift in conversation.

It’s casual and very commonly heard in everyday speech.

Try using it when you suddenly recall related info.

Related phrase: それで思い出したけど (Sore de omoidasita kedo) means “that reminds me.”

Sou ieba adds a warm, spontaneous vibe to your chat.

4. それはそうと (Sore wa sō to) – “Anyway” or “By the way”

This phrase is a bit more informal and works well when you want to steer the conversation to something else.

It literally means “that being so,” which is like saying “anyway” in English.

It’s great for casual chats with friends.

Keep in mind it’s a bit abrupt, so don’t use it in very formal contexts.

Example: “That movie was great. それはそうと, did you see the new café that opened?”

It helps keep your conversations flowing without awkward pauses.

5. ところが (Tokoroga) – “However, by the way”

Tokoroga is used when introducing a contrast or surprising info, similar to “however” or “by the way.”

It’s casual but adds a bit of an unexpected twist.

Perfect for storytelling or explaining situations where the outcome differs from expectations.

Use it to keep your listener intrigued.

Example: “I planned to go out today, ところが, it started raining.”

It gives your stories a natural, conversational flow.

6. さて (Sate) – “Well then, by the way”

Sate is often used to shift topics, like “well then” or “by the way.”

It’s casual but polite, great for conversation or presentations.

It sounds friendly and thoughtful.

Use it when you want to signal a change clearly.

Example: “さて, let’s talk about our plans for tomorrow.”

It helps you sound organized and smooth.

7. ついでに (Tsuide ni) – “While you’re at it, by the way”

Tsuide ni is used when adding something related as a side note or favor.

It literally means “on the occasion” or “while you’re at it.”

Perfect for casual conversations when you want to add a quick request or info.

Don’t confuse it with just a random topic change—it’s linked to the main action.

Example: “I’m going shopping. ついでに, can you pick up some milk?”

This phrase makes your requests sound natural and polite.

8. そうだ (Sou da) – “Oh, by the way”

Sou da is a simple phrase to bring up something that just came to mind.

It’s casual and very common in everyday Japanese.

Think of it as the Japanese equivalent of “Oh, by the way.”

It’s perfect for quickly adding new info.

Example: “そうだ, tomorrow is your birthday, right?”

Try it to sound spontaneous and natural.

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. ところでございますが (Tokorode gozaimasu ga) – Formal “By the way”

This is a very polite, formal version of ところで (Tokorode), often used in business or formal emails.

The addition of ございますが adds respect and softness.

Use it when you want to introduce a new topic respectfully.

It’s great for presentations or formal requests.

Example: “ところでございますが、次の会議の日時についてお話ししたいです。” (“By the way, I’d like to talk about the date of the next meeting.”)

It helps keep professional conversations smooth and courteous.

10. ちなみにですが (Chinami ni desu ga) – Formal “By the way”

This is a polite form of ちなみに (Chinami ni), often used in formal writing or speeches.

The ですが adds a polite softener, making it suitable for respectful contexts.

It’s perfect for adding related facts or additional info.

Example: “ちなみにですが、こちらの資料もご覧ください。” (“By the way, please also take a look at this material.”)

Using this form makes you sound thoughtful and professional.

It’s a great phrase to add extra info without sounding too casual.

11. それでは (Sore de wa) – “Well then, by the way” (polite)

Sore de wa is a polite phrase to transition smoothly between topics.

It’s often heard in formal conversations or speeches.

It means “well then” but can imply “by the way” depending on context.

Use it to sound graceful when changing subjects.

Example: “それでは、次の議題に移りましょう。” (“Well then, let’s move on to the next agenda.”)

It’s a polished way to guide conversations.

12. ご参考までに (Go sankou made ni) – “For your reference, by the way”

This phrase means “for your reference” and is a polite way to introduce additional info.

It’s useful in emails or formal talks when adding helpful data.

It’s not exactly “by the way” but works similarly for side notes.

Example: “ご参考までに、この資料をお送りします。” (“For your reference, I’m sending these materials.”)

Using this phrase shows professionalism and care.

It’s great for business or academic settings.

13. 念のために (Nen no tame ni) – “Just in case, by the way”

This phrase means “just in case” and is a polite way to add a precautionary note.

It’s perfect for formal situations where you want to ensure clarity.

Example: “念のために、明日の予定を再確認します。” (“Just in case, I’ll double-check tomorrow’s schedule.”)

It adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness.

While not a direct “by the way,” it’s often used to add side info politely.

It’s useful in emails, meetings, and instructions.

14. それにしても (Sore ni shite mo) – “Even so, by the way”

Sore ni shite mo means “even so” or “nevertheless,” introducing a contrasting or surprising point.

It’s polite and formal enough for many settings.

Example: “それにしても、結果は予想以上でした。” (“By the way, the results exceeded expectations.”)

It adds depth to your statements and invites reflection.

Use it carefully to sound nuanced and intelligent.

It’s a great phrase to keep your language interesting.

15. ところでございますが (Tokorode gozaimasu ga) – Very polite “By the way”

This phrase is a very polite form of ところで, often used in official speeches and announcements.

The ございますが adds formality and respect.

Perfect for when you need to gently introduce a new topic or question.

Example: “ところでございますが、次の議題に移らせていただきます。” (“By the way, let me move to the next agenda.”)

It shows great respect and professionalism.

Use it in formal meetings or ceremonies.

16. お知らせですが (Oshirase desu ga) – “Just to inform you, by the way”

Oshirase desu ga means “I have an announcement” or “just to inform you.”

It’s formal and polite, useful for official messages.

Example: “お知らせですが、会議は来週に延期されました。” (“By the way, the meeting has been postponed to next week.”)

It’s a clear way to add important information.

Use it to sound professional and considerate.

Great for emails and workplace conversation.

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. でさ (De sa) – Casual “By the way”

De sa is a very casual, slang-like way to say “by the way.”

It’s mostly used among close friends or young people.

It adds a laid-back, sometimes cheeky vibe.

Example: “でさ、昨日の話だけど…” (“By the way, about what happened yesterday…”)

Not suitable for formal occasions.

Use it to sound very natural in casual chats.

18. そうそう (Sou sou) – “Oh, by the way” (casual)

Sou sou is often used to remember something mid-conversation.

It’s very casual and mimics natural speech patterns.

Example: “そうそう、あの映画見た？” (“Oh, by the way, did you see that movie?”)

It’s friendly and informal.

Great for conversations with friends or family.

Using it makes your speech sound lively and spontaneous.

19. ところでさ (Tokorode sa) – Casual and friendly “By the way”

This adds さ at the end of ところで for an even more casual feel.

It’s often used by young people or in informal settings.

Example: “ところでさ、週末どうする？” (“By the way, what are you doing this weekend?”)

It sounds friendly and inviting.

Use it among peers to build rapport.

Be aware it’s not appropriate for formal talk.

20. まあね (Maa ne) – “Well, by the way” (very casual)

Maa ne is an informal phrase that can imply a change of topic or adding a side note.

It’s casual and often used in relaxed conversation.

Example: “まあね、そういえば…” (“Well, by the way…”)

It sounds laid-back and easygoing.

Great for casual, friendly chat.

Not for formal or business use.

21. つーか (Tsuuka) – Slang “By the way” / “Rather”

Tsuuka is slang, short for というか, meaning “or rather” or “by the way.”

It’s very casual and used mainly among younger speakers.

Example: “つーか、それ本当？” (“By the way, is that true?”)

It sounds cool and informal.

Avoid using it in formal situations.

Great for sounding like a native teen or young adult.

22. あ、そうだ (A, sou da) – “Ah, by the way”

This is a very natural phrase used when you suddenly remember something.

It means “Ah, that’s right” or “Oh, by the way.”

Example: “あ、そうだ、明日映画見に行こうよ！” (“Ah, by the way, let’s go see a movie tomorrow!”)

It’s casual and commonly used in daily life.

Perfect for friendly conversations and informal chats.

Using it makes your Japanese sound spontaneous and warm.

Concluding Thought

Exploring these 22 ways to say “By the way” in Japanese shows just how expressive the language can be. Each phrase gives you a slightly different flavor and nuance to suit your mood and setting.

From casual chats with friends to formal business meetings, having the right phrase at your fingertips helps you connect naturally and clearly.

Keep practicing these expressions, and soon you’ll be slipping them into conversations like a native—making your Japanese vibrant, warm, and truly your own!