on a completely different topic

USAGE SUMMARY

'on a completely different topic' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce an entirely new topic in a conversation or piece of writing. For example, "Now, on a completely different topic, I wanted to tell you about my plans for the weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

An interesting effort strong messaging on a completely different topic to the one we were asking for your hot takes on.

Vice

An interesting effort – strong messaging on a completely different topic to the one we were asking for your hot takes on.

Vice

On a completely different topic, some dry data that might make interesting and even encouraging reading.

The Guardian - Sport

Perhaps he was answering a question from another reporter on a completely different topic?

Huffington Post

And the second question on a completely different topic -- the President opposes same-sex marriage, but he supports giving same-sex couples the same rights as married people.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

While this could, maybe, possibly mitigate the severity of what he said, it's important to reiterate that he had apparently moved on to a completely different topic.

Huffington Post

I've had to develop the capacity to switch every halfhour or 45 minutes to a completely different topic.

The New York Times

The same discussion holds for examining the effect of high water saturation on CO2 VAPEX, which is a completely different topic.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

However, the map also illustrates another point about a completely different topic, one that is even bigger and further reaching than global obesity – the problem of information overload.

The Guardian

Matthews first identified the loneliness neurons somewhat serendipitously, while studying a completely different topic.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But execution is a completely different topic, and industry validation is a third, separate conversation.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a completely different topic" to clearly signal a shift, especially in formal writing or presentations where clarity is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "on a completely different topic" as a mere filler. Ensure the new topic is genuinely distinct and relevant to the overall context, or the transition might seem jarring.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a completely different topic" functions as a transitional phrase. It serves to explicitly signal a shift in the subject matter, alerting the audience or reader that a new, unrelated discussion is about to begin. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a completely different topic" is a useful transitional phrase for clearly signaling a change of subject. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for written English. While not the most formal option, it serves well across diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and general conversation. For more formal settings, consider alternatives such as "turning to another matter". Remember to use the phrase judiciously to avoid abrupt or unnecessary topic shifts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on an unrelated note

Indicates the new topic has no direct connection to the previous one.

turning to another matter

More formal and suitable for written communication or presentations.

moving on to something else

Suggests a progression to a new, potentially pre-planned topic.

switching gears

More informal and suggests a quicker, more abrupt change of subject.

in other news

Mirrors a news-reporting format, suitable for introducing unrelated updates.

changing the subject

A direct and less subtle way to indicate a topic shift, sometimes perceived as dismissive.

to digress for a moment

Acknowledges a temporary departure from the main topic.

let's talk about something different

Informal and conversational, inviting a change in topic.

by the way

A common phrase for introducing a slightly off-topic point, often seemingly casual.

now for something completely different

Humorous and directly references Monty Python's Flying Circus, implying a significant change of topic.

FAQs

How can I use "on a completely different topic" in a sentence?

You can use "on a completely different topic" to introduce a new subject that is unrelated to the previous discussion. For example, "Now, "on a completely different topic", let's discuss the budget."

What are some alternatives to "on a completely different topic"?

Alternatives include phrases like "switching gears", "on an unrelated note", or "turning to another matter", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "on a completely different topic" in formal writing?

Yes, "on a completely different topic" is acceptable in formal writing to clearly signal a change of subject. However, consider more formal alternatives like "turning to another matter" for a more sophisticated tone.

What's the difference between "on a completely different topic" and "by the way"?

"On a completely different topic" explicitly indicates a major subject shift, while "by the way" is often used to introduce a related but secondary piece of information or a minor digression.