on a tangential note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a tangential note" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a related but not central point in a discussion or conversation. Example: "On a tangential note, I wanted to mention the recent developments in our industry that could impact our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

On a tangential note, I'm also excited about what Plume and others have done in the "beyond wireless" area with OpenSync.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In a tangential note, US Airways is planning to add extra flights out of Florida on Friday, to assist passengers in circumnavigating the projected path of Frances.

Forbes

Stop on a good note!

WikiHow

'The One Thing Nobody Has Told You...'. is my occasional column touching on a tangential, but interesting, detail that has been lost or under-reported in the news.

Forbes

I've read so many novels that either focused on music directly as a subject, or touched on it in a tangential way.

Huffington Post

On a positive note!

Independent

Begin on a friendly note.

WikiHow

End on a warm note.

WikiHow

Leave on a high note.

WikiHow

End on a dramatic note.

WikiHow

Close on a good note.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a tangential note" to smoothly introduce information that is related to the main topic but not directly part of it. This helps maintain the flow of the conversation while adding relevant context or details.

Common error

Avoid frequently using "on a tangential note" within a single piece of writing or conversation. Overuse can make your communication seem scattered and distract the audience from the main point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a tangential note" functions as an introductory phrase, specifically an adverbial phrase. It modifies the subsequent statement by indicating that the information is related but not central to the primary topic. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a tangential note" serves as a useful introductory phrase to smoothly bring up related but non-essential information in a conversation or piece of writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and general usability. While it's not exceedingly common, occurring mostly in News & Media and Science, overuse should be avoided. Consider alternatives like "by the way" or "as a side note" to maintain a natural flow. The register is mostly neutral, making it suitable for a variety of contexts, but perhaps less so for very formal or high-stakes communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Tangentially speaking

More directly indicates a slightly related point.

By the way

Simple interjection to introduce a somewhat related but different topic.

In a related vein

Introduces something connected but distinct from the main subject.

As a side note

Signals a brief, related comment that's not essential.

On a slightly different note

Indicates a shift to a topic that is somewhat different.

Parenthetically speaking

Indicates the introduction of a remark that departs from the main point.

Incidently

Used to introduce a chance or minor point that is connected to the current topic.

As an aside

Similar to "as a side note", but potentially a bit more informal.

Speaking of which

Connects to something previously mentioned, but veers off on a tangent.

In passing

Used to introduce a brief and often quick comment.

FAQs

How can I use "on a tangential note" in a sentence?

You can use "on a tangential note" to introduce information that is related to the main topic but not essential to it. For example, "We need to discuss the budget. On a tangential note, have you seen the latest sales figures?"

What can I say instead of "on a tangential note"?

You can use alternatives like "by the way", "in a related vein", or "as a side note" depending on the context.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "on a tangential note"?

While generally acceptable, using "on a tangential note" might be inappropriate in highly formal settings or when addressing a very serious topic where any deviation could be seen as insensitive. Consider your audience and the context.

What's the difference between "on a tangential note" and "incidentally"?

"On a tangential note" explicitly signals that the following information is related but not central. "Incidentally" "incidentally" introduces something that is more of a chance occurrence or a minor point with a weaker connection to the main topic.