Aliás vs. A Propósito: Two Ways to Say “By the Way” in Portuguese
These expressions can both introduce a side point, but aliás also commonly adds a correction or refinement.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
A propósito often means by the way or speaking of which. It signals that the next point connects to something already mentioned, even if it was not the main topic.
Use a propósito to introduce a connected subject
It helps you move from a conversation about a place, person, or plan to a relevant question. Make the connection clear enough for the listener to follow.
A propósito, você já conheceu o centro histórico?
By the way, have you visited the historic center yet?
A propósito do curso, você sabe quando começam as aulas?
Speaking of the course, do you know when classes start?
Use aliás to add or correct information
Aliás can mean by the way, as a matter of fact, or more precisely, depending on context. Speakers often use it to add a detail or correct what they just said.
Because it can revise a statement, listen to what follows. The speaker may be refining a time, name, or explanation rather than introducing an unrelated subject.
A reunião é na quinta — aliás, na sexta de manhã.
The meeting is on Thursday—actually, Friday morning.
Ela mora em Salvador; aliás, acabou de se mudar para lá.
She lives in Salvador; in fact, she just moved there.
Choose the expression for your conversational move
The expressions overlap when you introduce a side comment. A propósito points clearly to a connected topic; aliás can do that too, but it is especially useful for adding or adjusting information. Context and intonation matter.
In writing, a comma after either opening expression helps signal the transition. In speech, a brief pause makes the change easier to hear.
A propósito, você pode me mandar o endereço?
By the way, could you send me the address?
O endereço fica na Rua Central — aliás, Rua das Flores.
The address is on Central Street—actually, Flowers Street.
Put it into practice
Use a propósito to introduce a connected point and aliás to add, refine, or correct information.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “By the way, have you visited the historic center yet”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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