By the way
A very common and direct equivalent, used interchangeably with 'a propósito' to introduce a new but related thought.
Literally 'speaking of that,' this phrase is perfect when your new thought is directly inspired by what was just said.
An informal way to get someone's attention before changing the subject, similar to saying 'Hey' or 'Listen'.
The day is very nice. By the way, do you want to walk later?
I need to buy milk. By the way, the store closes at 8.
Ana has a new car. Speaking of which, do you need a ride home?
Hey, by the way, did you see my keys? I can't find them.
'A propósito' and 'por cierto' are the standard and are understood everywhere. 'Oye' is a very common informal attention-grabber.
'Por cierto' is extremely common in everyday conversation. 'Oye' is frequently used to introduce a quick, unrelated question.
Usage is standard, with 'a propósito' and 'por cierto' being the main phrases. 'Oye' is also very common, especially in informal contexts.
While 'a propósito' and 'por cierto' are used, it's very common to use 'Che' as an attention-grabber, similar to 'Oye'. You might hear: 'Che, a propósito, ¿viste el partido?'
The phrases 'a propósito' and 'por cierto' are identical to Latin American usage. 'Oye' is also used. The main difference would be the use of 'vosotros' in the rest of the sentence (e.g., 'Oye, ¿visteis mis llaves?').
Using 'por el camino' — This is a literal translation of 'by the way' but it means 'along the road' or 'on the path'. For example, 'Vi flores bonitas por el camino' (I saw pretty flowers along the road). Use 'a propósito' or 'por cierto' for changing the subject.
Using 'de paso' — 'De paso' means 'while I'm at it' or 'on the way'. It's used when you do something extra while already doing a main task. For example, 'Voy a la cocina, de paso te traigo agua' (I'm going to the kitchen, while I'm at it I'll bring you water). It doesn't mean 'by the way'.
Confusing 'a propósito' with 'a propósito de' — 'A propósito' stands alone to mean 'by the way'. 'A propósito de' means 'regarding' or 'about' and needs an object. For example, 'A propósito de la fiesta, ¿qué vas a llevar?' (Regarding the party, what are you going to bring?).
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