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ところで、〜 (by the way, ~ / incidentally, ~)

Grammar & Usage

fixed expression

neutral

How it works

This expression is used to change the subject of conversation or introduce a new topic, often one that has just come to mind or is somewhat related to the previous discussion but not directly. It functions similarly to 'by the way' or 'incidentally' in English. It is typically followed by a comma (or a slight pause in speech) and then the new statement.

Sample sentences

昨日、新しい映画を観たんだ。ところで、週末の予定は何？

I watched a new movie yesterday. By the way, what are your plans for the weekend?

このレポート、もうすぐ完成しそうです。ところで、例の会議はいつでしたっけ？

This report is almost finished. Incidentally, when was that meeting?

お久しぶりですね。ところで、お元気でしたか？

It's been a while, hasn't it? By the way, how have you been?

Quick facts

usage_nuance:Can be used to smoothly transition to a different subject without an abrupt change. It can also be used to ask a sudden question.

Often used with

Mnemonic

Get an AI-generated memory hook for ところで、〜 (by the way, ~ / incidentally, ~) — a vivid scene that locks the word in your brain 🧠

Example

昨日、新しい映画を観たんだ。ところで、週末の予定は何？

I watched a new movie yesterday. By the way, what are your plans for the weekend?

このレポート、もうすぐ完成しそうです。ところで、例の会議はいつでしたっけ？

This report is almost finished. Incidentally, when was that meeting?