übrigens
/ˈyːbʁɪɡəns/
The English phrase "btw" can be translated into German as übrigens.
übrigens is used as a transition or a way to change the topic in a conversation, functioning much like "by the way" does in English. It can also be used to introduce an additional piece of information.
Which one should you use?
While übrigens is a common way to transition, you can also use Nebenbei bemerkt to insert a comment casually or in passing.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈyːbʁɪɡəns/
Did you know?
- The word übrigens is built from übrig, which means 'left over'. It literally describes a piece of information that was left over or remaining to be said.
- In formal written German, übrigens is rarely used to start a sentence. Instead, it is usually tucked into the middle of a clause to maintain a smoother flow.
- The alternative Nebenbei bemerkt literally means 'noticed on the side'. This evokes a physical image of a comment being made while focusing on something else.
Examples in context
- Nebenbei bemerkt, ich wollte dir sagen, dass du eine tolle Arbeit geleistet hast.By the way, I wanted to tell you that you did a great job.
- Apropos, ich habe gestern einen tollen Film gesehen. Möchtest du darüber sprechen?By the way, I saw a great movie yesterday. Do you want to talk about it?
- Übrigens, ich habe heute viel Zeit.By the way, I have a lot of time today.
- Das ist übrigens ein sehr gutes Buch.That is a very good book, by the way.
- Übrigens, hast du meinen Schlüssel gesehen?By the way, have you seen my key?
Example conversation
Two friends are sitting in a cafe.
- MaximilianDer Kaffee schmeckt hier sehr gut.The coffee tastes very good here.
- JuliaJa, das stimmt. Übrigens, wie geht es deiner Mutter?Yes, that's true. By the way, how is your mother?
- MaximilianIhr geht es sehr gut, danke der Nachfrage.She is doing very well, thanks for asking.
- JuliaDas freut mich zu hören.I am happy to hear that.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry übrigens, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries übrigens, CC BY-SA 4.0.
