Using alternative phrases for “by way of introduction” can enhance your writing by improving clarity, tone, or formality depending on context. Here are several substitutes that can be used interchangeably or with slight nuance depending on the sentence structure.

Common Alternatives
- To begin with
- As an introduction
- To start off
- By means of introduction
- Let me introduce
- As a preliminary
- To preface this
- By way of background
- Allow me to begin by
- To kick things off
Formal Alternatives
- Permit me to preface this by saying
- In preliminary remarks
- By means of a brief preface
- Let this serve as an introduction
Casual Alternatives
- Just to get us started
- Before we dive in
- Let’s kick things off with
- To get the ball rolling
Examples in Use
| Original Phrase | Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| By way of introduction | To begin with | To begin with, let’s review the company’s founding principles. |
| By way of introduction | Let me introduce | Let me introduce the main concept before we proceed. |
| By way of introduction | As a preliminary | As a preliminary, here’s a brief history of the movement. |
FAQ
When should I use “by way of introduction”?
Use this phrase when you are about to provide introductory information or context before the main content. It’s common in speeches, essays, or formal writing.
Is “by way of introduction” too formal for casual writing?
Yes, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using phrases like “to start off” or “before we dive in” instead.
Can I use these alternatives in emails?
Absolutely. Choose the alternative that matches the tone and formality of your email. For business communication, options like “to begin with” or “as an introduction” are ideal.

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