by the way
By the way (adverb) means used to introduce a remark that is not part of the main subject, or to add a piece of information as an aside. Example: “By the way, your parcel arrived this morning.”
How to use by the way
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA way of adding something that isn't the main point you were making.
Neutral and extremely common in speech and informal writing. It usually starts a sentence but can sit mid-sentence between commas. Abbreviated to BTW in messaging and email.
Do not confuse 'by the way' with 'in the way'. 'By the way' introduces an aside; 'in the way' means blocking something.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____, your parcel arrived this morning.
Etymology
First appeared in the 10th century with literal meaning "by the side of the road", from Old English weġ (which became "way") meaning "road". Soon afterward (circa 1000) it came to mean "during one's journey". The figurative meaning developed in the mid-16th century, with the first instance of the modern meaning being from 1614.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for by the way
See all rhymes for by the way →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 'by the way' and 'anyway'?
'By the way' introduces a new, unrelated point as an aside. 'Anyway' does the opposite — it closes a digression and returns to the main subject, or dismisses what was just said.
What does BTW stand for?
It stands for 'by the way' and is used in texts, chat and informal email. It works in exactly the same positions as the full phrase.
Is 'by the way' rude?
Not in itself, but it is sometimes used to slip in a criticism or a demand while making it sound minor. Tone and what follows decide how it lands.
What is the meaning of by the way?
"by the way" (adverb) means used to introduce a remark that is not part of the main subject, or to add a piece of information as an aside.