10 Phrases to Say “Anyway”
Have you ever needed to get back to the main point after a distraction, or end a conversation politely? The word “anyway” is incredibly useful for this, but using it too often can sound repetitive. Learning different ways to say “anyway” helps you guide conversations smoothly and sound more fluent in English, whether you’re chatting with friends or in a meeting.
Common Ways to Say ‘Anyway’
Returning to the Main Topic
- Anyway, back to what I was saying…
Use this to clearly signal that you’re returning to your original point after an interruption or tangent.
“So, as I was explaining about the project… oh, that’s a nice photo. Anyway, back to what I was saying, the deadline is Friday.” - So, as I was saying…
A classic and polite phrase to pick up exactly where you left off in a conversation or story.
“I was telling you about my trip. So, as I was saying, we arrived in Rome and…” - To get back on track…
This is great for group discussions or meetings when the conversation has gone off topic.
“We’ve been talking about the budget for 20 minutes. To get back on track, let’s finalize the launch date.”
Changing the Subject
- So, anyway…
The most common casual alternative. It’s perfect for lightly changing the subject in friendly conversations.
“That movie was so long. So, anyway, what are your plans for the weekend?” - At any rate…
A slightly more formal phrase that means “whatever the case may be” or “no matter what.”
“I’m not sure if the package will arrive today or tomorrow. At any rate, we’ll be ready for it.” - In any case…
Similar to “at any rate,” this is used to introduce a concluding point or to move to what’s most important.
“We might not have all the data, but in any case, we need to make a decision now.”
Ending a Conversation
- Anyway, I should let you go.
A very polite and common way to end a phone call or chat, showing consideration for the other person’s time.
“It was great catching up! Anyway, I should let you go. Talk soon!” - Well, I’d better get going.
A friendly way to say you need to leave or end the conversation, often because you have something else to do.
“This has been fun, but I’d better get going. I have to pick up my kids from school.”
Minimizing Importance
- It’s no big deal, anyway.
Use this to downplay the importance of something, often to make yourself or someone else feel better.
“I didn’t get the job, but it’s no big deal, anyway. The commute was too long.” - Whatever.
A very casual, sometimes dismissive word to show that you don’t care about the details or outcome. Use with close friends only.
“We can get pizza or Chinese food. Whatever, I don’t care.”
Real-Life Dialogues
Maria: …and then my cat jumped on the table! But, so, as I was saying, we need to decide on a theme for the party.
Ben: Right. I think a tropical theme would be fun.
Carlos: I’m not sure if the client will approve the first or second design.
Diya: In any case, we need to have both versions ready by tomorrow.
Friend 1: I had such a crazy day at work…
Friend 2: I’m sorry, I have to run to a doctor’s appointment. Anyway, I should let you go. Tell me the rest later!
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Getting back to your main point | So, as I was saying… | It’s polite, clear, and directly resumes your previous thought. |
| Ending a phone call politely | Anyway, I should let you go. | It shows you respect the other person’s time and provides a smooth exit. |
| When the details don’t matter | In any case… | It shifts focus to the conclusion or the most important action item. |
Practice Tip
Think of these phrases as your “conversation navigation tools.” Use “So, as I was saying…” like a “back” button and “Anyway, I should let you go” like an “end call” button. This will help you remember their purpose.
Why This Matters
- It gives you control over the flow of conversation, allowing you to smoothly change topics or return to your main point.
- You can end conversations politely without seeming rude or abrupt, which is a key social skill.
- Using varied transition words makes your English sound more natural and less repetitive.
Mastering these alternatives to “anyway” will make you a more confident and effective communicator in English. They are small words with big power to shape your conversations. Try using one or two of them this week, and you’ll notice how much more natural you sound. Happy learning! 😊
