Meaning
Introducing a new, related topic or a sudden thought.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'Por cierto' is often used to interrupt politely. Spanish conversation is highly interactive, and this phrase is a socially acceptable way to 'cut in' with a new idea. Mexicans might use 'Por cierto' followed by a diminutive to sound even friendlier. It's part of the 'cortesía' (politeness) culture. In the Rioplatense region, 'Por cierto' is common, but you'll also hear 'A propósito' used very frequently in the same way, sometimes with a more emphatic tone. In formal Colombian speech, 'Por cierto' is used to maintain a high level of eloquence in conversation, showing that the speaker is organized in their thoughts.
The Comma Rule
Always put a comma after 'Por cierto' when it starts a sentence. It helps the listener prepare for the topic change.
Don't Overuse
If you use it too much, you might sound like you have a short attention span. Use it once or twice per conversation.
Meaning
Introducing a new, related topic or a sudden thought.
The Comma Rule
Always put a comma after 'Por cierto' when it starts a sentence. It helps the listener prepare for the topic change.
Don't Overuse
If you use it too much, you might sound like you have a short attention span. Use it once or twice per conversation.
The 'Columbo' Move
In negotiations, use 'Por cierto' at the end to bring up a tough point casually. It makes the point seem less aggressive.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase to change the topic.
Me gusta mucho tu perro. ________, ¿cómo se llama?
You are changing the topic from 'liking the dog' to 'asking its name'.
Which sentence uses 'Por cierto' correctly?
Choose the best option:
This is the standard usage for introducing a new question.
Complete the dialogue naturally.
A: 'La cena está lista.' B: '¡Qué bien! ________, ¿compraste vino?'
B is adding a related thought about the dinner.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are talking about a movie and suddenly remember you need to call your mom.
'Por cierto' is used for sudden realizations.
Match the Spanish phrase with its English equivalent.
Match the following:
These are the standard translations.
🎉 Score: /5
Visual Learning Aids
Por cierto vs Por supuesto
Practice Bank
5 exercisesMe gusta mucho tu perro. ________, ¿cómo se llama?
You are changing the topic from 'liking the dog' to 'asking its name'.
Choose the best option:
This is the standard usage for introducing a new question.
A: 'La cena está lista.' B: '¡Qué bien! ________, ¿compraste vino?'
B is adding a related thought about the dinner.
You are talking about a movie and suddenly remember you need to call your mom.
'Por cierto' is used for sudden realizations.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the standard translations.
🎉 Score: /5
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, it is perfectly acceptable in professional emails to introduce a related point.
They are synonyms, but 'A propósito' can also mean 'on purpose'.
No, it is a simple connector and does not change the mood of the verb.
It is always 'Por cierto'. 'Para cierto' is incorrect.
Related Phrases
A propósito
synonymOn purpose / By the way
Dicho sea de paso
similarIncidentally
Por supuesto
contrastOf course
Además
builds onFurthermore
En fin
contrastAnyway / In short
