Professional writers employ various connecting phrases to smoothly connect different topics in their work. Common alternatives to "on another note" include "switching gears," "incidentally," "on a different subject," "moving on to," and "by the way." More formal options encompass "while we're on the subject," "speaking of which," "in other news," and "before I forget." Understanding these alternatives helps writers maintain appropriate formality levels and enhance their communication effectiveness, with each phrase serving distinct contextual purposes.
Is It Professional to Use 'On Another Note'?
While "on another note" is a common connecting phrase used in both written and verbal communication, its professional appropriateness depends largely on the context and formality level of the situation. In formal business documents, academic papers, or legal writings, more sophisticated linking phrases are generally preferred. However, "on another note" can be suitable for semi-formal communication, such as business emails, internal memos, or professional presentations.
The phrase works particularly well in scenarios where a clear topic shift is needed while maintaining a conversational tone. When writing highly formal documents, writers should opt for alternatives like "furthermore," "additionally," or "moreover." The key is to assess the document's purpose and audience before deciding whether this casual linking fits the required level of professionalism.
Why You Might Use a Different Word To 'On Another Note'
Selecting alternative phrases to "on another note" can enhance writing clarity and maintain appropriate formality levels across different contexts. Writers may choose different connectors to better match their audience's expectations or to avoid repetition in longer documents where multiple topic shifts occur. Some situations require more formal language, particularly in academic or professional settings, where alternatives like "furthermore" or "additionally" might be more suitable.
Using varied connector phrases also demonstrates linguistic versatility and helps maintain reader engagement. Different contexts may call for specific types of connectors – chronological sequences might benefit from "subsequently" or "meanwhile," while contrasting ideas might be better served by "conversely" or "in contrast." The choice of connector can also help writers more precisely signal the relationship between different topics or ideas being discussed.
10 Synonyms for 'On Another Note'
1. ### By the way
Perfect for casual conversations and informal writing when shifting between related or unrelated topics. This phrase maintains a conversational tone while smoothly altering the discussion. It's particularly effective in emails, blog posts, or friendly discussions where you want to keep the flow natural. Works well when the new topic isn't entirely disconnected from the previous one but represents a slight change in focus.
Example use:
"By the way, have you heard about the new coffee shop downtown?"
"We'll need those reports by Friday. By the way, the team lunch has been moved to 1 PM."
"The garden is coming along nicely. By the way, I borrowed your pruning shears."
2. ### On a different subject
Ideal for formal business communications and academic writing when a clear topical break is needed. This phrase explicitly signals a complete change in subject matter, making it useful in meetings, presentations, or structured discussions. It helps maintain professionalism while ensuring clear communication shifts.
Example use:
"On a different subject, the quarterly budget review needs to be scheduled."
"The marketing campaign is proceeding as planned. On a different subject, we need to discuss staffing."
"The research methodology has been finalized. On a different subject, let's review the timeline."
3. ### Incidentally
Best suited for introducing relevant but tangential information in both formal and informal contexts. This shifting word works well when the new topic has some loose connection to the previous discussion but isn't directly related. It's particularly effective in academic writing and professional correspondence.
Example use:
"Incidentally, the same research team made another breakthrough last month."
"The project is nearly complete. Incidentally, we received positive feedback from the focus group."
"She's an excellent candidate for the position. Incidentally, she speaks three languages."
4. ### Switching gears
Excellent for dynamic conversations and presentations where an energetic change is needed. This phrase adds momentum to discussions while clearly signaling a topic alteration. It's particularly effective in public speaking, team meetings, or educational settings where engagement is important.
Example use:
"Switching gears, let's talk about our expansion plans."
"The technical issues have been resolved. Switching gears, how's the new marketing strategy coming along?"
"We've covered the basics of photosynthesis. Switching gears, let's examine cellular respiration."
5. ### Speaking of which
Perfect for making natural connections between loosely related topics in conversation. This phrase works best when there's a subtle link between the previous and new topics. It's especially useful in informal discussions and casual writing where smooth shifts are desired.
Example use:
"Speaking of which, did you see the email about the new policy?"
"The renovation project is almost complete. Speaking of which, we need to order new furniture."
"She's studying marine biology. Speaking of which, have you visited the new aquarium?"
6. ### Moving on to
Ideal for structured presentations and formal discussions where clear sequential changes are needed. This phrase helps maintain organization in complex presentations or documents. It's particularly effective in academic lectures, business presentations, or detailed explanations.
Example use:
"Moving on to our financial projections for next quarter…"
"The first phase is complete. Moving on to the implementation stage."
"We've covered the theoretical framework. Moving on to practical applications."
7. ### While we're on the subject
Best used when shifting to a related but distinct aspect of the current topic. This phrase maintains thematic continuity while altering focus slightly. It's particularly useful in educational contexts, detailed discussions, or when exploring multiple facets of a subject.
Example use:
"While we're on the subject, have you considered updating the software?"
"The new design looks promising. While we're on the subject, what about color options?"
"This recipe works well with chicken. While we're on the subject, it's also great with fish."
8. ### In other news
Perfect for casual conversations and informal updates when making a clear break between topics. This phrase works well in personal communications, social media updates, or informal newsletters. It carries a slight journalistic tone while remaining conversational.
Example use:
"In other news, we're planning a team building event next month."
"The website redesign is complete. In other news, we've hired two new developers."
"The weather's finally improving. In other news, I'm starting a new project."
9. ### Come to think of it
Excellent for introducing spontaneous or seemingly forgotten points in conversation. This phrase adds a natural, thoughtful quality to shifts. It's particularly effective in informal discussions or writing where you want to maintain a personal, reflective tone.
Example use:
"Come to think of it, we should invite the new team members to the meeting."
"The presentation went well. Come to think of it, we should share it with the other departments."
"She'd be perfect for the role. Come to think of it, she's available starting next week."
10. ### Before I forget
Ideal for adding important afterthoughts or urgent information to a conversation. This phrase creates a sense of immediacy and importance while shifting to a new topic. It's particularly useful in emails, meetings, or conversations where you need to address multiple points.
Example use:
"Before I forget, the client meeting has been moved to Wednesday."
"The report looks good. Before I forget, we need your signature on the contracts."
"Thanks for your help with the project. Before I forget, there's a team lunch tomorrow."
Final Thoughts
Mastery of connecting phrases enhances both written and verbal communication by providing smooth segues between topics. The ability to skillfully shift between different subjects demonstrates a sophisticated command of language and guarantees clarity in conveying complex ideas. Writers and speakers who effectively employ transitional phrases maintain their audience's attention while presenting information in a logical, coherent manner.
When incorporating these alternative expressions for "on another note," individuals should select phrases that best suit their specific context and maintain the natural flow of their discourse. The key is to use these shifts purposefully and sparingly, guaranteeing they genuinely serve to bridge ideas rather than merely filling space. With practice, these transitional devices become valuable tools in creating polished, professional communication that effectively guides readers through various topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'On Another Note' Be Used in Academic or Scientific Papers?
While "on another note" is generally too informal for academic writing, researchers should opt for more formal connecting phrases like "furthermore," "additionally," or "moreover" in scientific papers.
How Often Should Transition Phrases Be Used in Professional Writing?
Professional writing should include link phrases every few paragraphs or when introducing new ideas, but overuse can disrupt flow. One or two links per page is generally appropriate.
Are There Cultural Differences in Using Transition Phrases Across English-Speaking Countries?
Cultural variations exist in shift phrase usage across English-speaking nations. British writers often favor formal shifts, while American writers typically use more direct, conversational linking words and phrases.
What Punctuation Marks Should Follow 'On Another Note' in a Sentence?
"On another note" is typically followed by either a comma or a colon. A comma is more common in casual writing, while a colon suits formal contexts better.
Should 'On Another Note' Be Avoided in Formal Email Communications?
While "on another note" is generally acceptable in formal emails, professionals should consider more refined shifts like "additionally," "furthermore," or "regarding" for highly formal business correspondence.
