Signification
Changing the topic to something related.
Contexte culturel
Using 'Между прочим' can be a way to 'soften' a request or a piece of news, making it seem less demanding. In meetings, it's used to bring up 'AOB' (Any Other Business) items casually. Classic authors like Chekhov used this phrase to show the rambling, natural nature of human thought. On Telegram and VK, it's often used in arguments to drop a 'knowledge bomb' or a fact that proves the other person wrong.
The Comma Rule
Always put a comma after 'Между прочим' if it's at the start of your sentence. It's the #1 mistake for learners.
Don't Overuse
Using it in every sentence makes you sound indecisive or scattered. Use it once or twice per conversation.
Signification
Changing the topic to something related.
The Comma Rule
Always put a comma after 'Между прочим' if it's at the start of your sentence. It's the #1 mistake for learners.
Don't Overuse
Using it in every sentence makes you sound indecisive or scattered. Use it once or twice per conversation.
Tone Matters
If you stress the 'Я' before 'между прочим', it sounds like you are defending yourself. 'Я, между прочим, старался!'
Softening Requests
Use it to mention something you want without being too direct. It's a very 'Russian' way to be polite.
Teste-toi
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
Я вчера видел твою сестру, _________.
We are adding a casual piece of information, so 'между прочим' is the best fit.
Which sentence uses the correct punctuation?
Choose the correct sentence:
Parenthetical words in Russian must be followed by a comma if they start a sentence.
Match the phrase usage to the tone.
Sentence: 'Я, между прочим, твой отец!'
The speaker is asserting their status/authority using the phrase.
Complete the dialogue.
А: Ты идешь на вечеринку? Б: Да. _________, там будет и Максим.
Speaker B is adding a related piece of information about the party.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesЯ вчера видел твою сестру, _________.
We are adding a casual piece of information, so 'между прочим' is the best fit.
Choose the correct sentence:
Parenthetical words in Russian must be followed by a comma if they start a sentence.
Sentence: 'Я, между прочим, твой отец!'
The speaker is asserting their status/authority using the phrase.
А: Ты идешь на вечеринку? Б: Да. _________, там будет и Максим.
Speaker B is adding a related piece of information about the party.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with friends, but also in a business meeting to add a point.
Yes! 'Он пришёл, между прочим.' It sounds like a natural afterthought.
'Кстати' means 'by the way' (relevant to the topic). 'Между прочим' is 'incidentally' (can be less relevant).
No, in this idiom, it is always 'прочим'.
Yes, e.g., 'Между прочим, ты не видел мои ключи?'
No, that is 'между нами'. 'Между прочим' is 'by the way'.
Yes, very often in emails, chats, and literature.
Because it's a parenthetical word that doesn't affect the grammar of the sentence.
It's possible but redundant. Just 'Между прочим' is better.
No, it's a standard part of the Russian language.
Expressions liées
Кстати
synonymBy the way / opportunely
К слову сказать
similarSpeaking of which
Ах да
similarOh, right / Oh, by the way
Впрочем
contrastHowever / anyway
Попутно
specialized formIn passing
