When expressing ourselves, we often find the need to change our language or use different words to convey the same meaning. One such word that frequently appears in conversations, writing, and speeches is “aside.” In this guide, we will explore various formal and informal alternatives to this word, providing you with a rich selection of options to expand your vocabulary. Whether you’re a student, professional, or language enthusiast, this guide will help you diversify your language skills.
Table of Contents
Formal Alternatives
Formal language is typically used in academic or professional settings. Employing these formal alternatives to “aside” can enhance your writing or speech, lending it a more polished and sophisticated tone.
1. Besides
Besides is a suitable option when you want to introduce additional information or a point that is tangentially related to the main discussion. For example:
Example: Besides, we must consider the financial implications of this decision.
2. Moreover
Moreover is ideal for emphasizing or adding supporting evidence to a previous statement. It is often used in formal essays or reports. For example:
Example: Moreover, the study indicated a strong correlation between the two variables.
3. In addition
In addition is a versatile phrase that implies information is being added to the current context. It can be used in both written and spoken language. For example:
Example: In addition, we must consider the social impact of this policy.
4. Furthermore
Furthermore serves as a transition to add more information but also implies logical progression or continuation. It is commonly used in academic writing. For example:
Example: Furthermore, the research findings align with previous studies conducted in this field.
Informal Alternatives
Conversational language often employs informal alternatives to make speech more engaging and relatable. Here are some informal ways to say “aside” in everyday conversation:
1. By the way
By the way is a common phrase used to introduce an additional and relatively less significant point. It is often used in casual social settings. For example:
Example: By the way, have you finished the book we were discussing?
2. Off-topic
Off-topic is a colloquial term indicating content or discussions that deviate from the primary subject matter. It is often used in informal conversations and online forums. For example:
Example: Sorry, that was a bit off-topic, but did you see the latest episode of the show?
3. As an aside
As an aside is a versatile expression to interject a comment or remark that may not directly relate to the main point but adds additional context or personal insights. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. For example:
Example: As an aside, I’ve always found it fascinating how language evolves over time.
4. Incidentally
Incidentally is an informal way to introduce a remark, fact, or anecdote that may not be directly related to the topic at hand. It often adds an element of surprise or interest. For example:
Example: Incidentally, I bumped into our old neighbor today, and she mentioned that she got a promotion.
Conclusion
By utilizing a diverse range of words and phrases, you can effectively replace “aside” in your communications. This guide demonstrated various formal and informal alternatives, each serving a specific purpose. Remember, choosing the right word depends on your context, audience, and desired tone. By incorporating these alternatives into your vocabulary, you can enhance your language skills and express yourself with greater precision and creativity.
