Knowing what to say next in a conversation can sometimes feel tricky—especially in moments of awkward silence, uncertainty, or high stakes. Whether you’re in a meeting, on a date, or just trying to keep a friendly chat flowing, having a few alternatives ready can make all the difference. This article explores other ways to say “what to say next” that are natural, thoughtful, and engaging.
From professional expressions like “How would you like to proceed?” to more casual phrases like “So, what’s on your mind?”, each suggestion is designed to help you maintain momentum and connection. You’ll also find tips on choosing the right tone depending on the situation. So, if you’re stuck or just want to keep the conversation going, these handy alternatives will help you speak with confidence, empathy, and ease.
What Does “What To Say Next” Mean?
“What to say next” is a phrase people use when they’re uncertain about how to continue a conversation. It can refer to moments of hesitation, transitions in dialogue, or times when you’re thinking through your next response or topic. It’s common in both spoken conversation and written communication, especially when trying to maintain clarity and flow.
When to Use “What To Say Next”
You can use this phrase (or its alternatives) in various settings:
- During presentations or speeches
- In text messages or emails
- While facilitating meetings or discussions
- In casual or vulnerable moments where you’re processing thoughts aloud
It’s especially helpful when you need a natural transition without sounding rehearsed or robotic.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “What To Say Next”?
It’s polite but very casual. While fine for informal settings or casual conversations, it may sound unsure or unprepared in professional environments. That’s why choosing a more polished alternative—like “Moving on” or “To continue”—can help you maintain a confident tone while still expressing the same idea.
Pros and Cons of Saying “What To Say Next”
Pros:
- Feels relatable and human
- Shows thoughtfulness or honesty
- Works in relaxed conversations
Cons:
- Can come off as uncertain or unprofessional
- Interrupts flow in formal writing or presentations
- May signal lack of preparedness if used repeatedly
Synonyms For “What To Say Next”
- To continue…
- Let me think for a moment…
- Now, moving forward…
- As for what’s next…
- That brings us to…
- On that note…
- Let’s shift gears…
- Picking up from there…
- I was just thinking…
- Here’s my next thought…
- Let’s keep going
- What comes to mind next…
- Let’s move on to…
- Before I forget…
- Another thing I’d like to add…
- While we’re on the topic…
- Speaking of that…
- Let me circle back to that later
- Here’s something worth mentioning
- Let’s tackle the next item
- On a related note…
- Next up…
- Let’s explore that further
- Let me reframe that
- Let’s look at it another way
- Let’s not forget…
- While we’re still on this…
- I’d like to add something here
- Let’s not get ahead of ourselves
- Let’s bring it home
1. Let Me Think for a Moment
Definition: A brief pause to collect your thoughts.
Explanation: Shows you’re reflecting rather than rushing.
Example:
“Hmm… let me think for a moment before I answer that.”
Worst Use: Too frequent use may seem unprepared.
Tone: Thoughtful, honest
2. Now, Moving Forward
Definition: A smooth transition to the next point.
Explanation: Perfect for guiding discussions or meetings.
Example:
“Now, moving forward, let’s explore the second topic.”
Worst Use: Avoid in deeply emotional or casual talks.
Tone: Professional, focused
3. That Said…
Definition: A phrase used to pivot or contrast ideas.
Explanation: Adds nuance and transition.
Example:
“That said, I do think we need a backup plan.”
Worst Use: May feel abrupt if not followed with clarity.
Tone: Reflective, balanced
4. As for What’s Next…
Definition: Signals the upcoming idea or topic.
Explanation: Keeps flow smooth and engaging.
Example:
“As for what’s next, we’ll begin with the survey results.”
Worst Use: Avoid if not followed by specifics.
Tone: Transition-focused, calm
5. Here’s Where We Go From Here
Definition: Indicates direction or continuation.
Explanation: Useful in presentations or structured conversations.
Example:
“Here’s where we go from here—step two of the rollout.”
Worst Use: Too formal for casual texting.
Tone: Guiding, confident
6. Let’s Shift Gears
Definition: A metaphor to indicate change in topic.
Explanation: Best used when moving from one discussion to another.
Example:
“We’ve covered the challenges—now let’s shift gears to solutions.”
Worst Use: Might feel too informal in a solemn conversation.
Tone: Conversational, dynamic
7. To Continue…
Definition: Signals the next portion of thought or speech.
Explanation: Ideal for resuming after a pause or sidebar.
Example:
“To continue, we’ll now look at the budget breakdown.”
Worst Use: May feel stiff in very casual settings.
Tone: Clear, professional
8. Let’s Dive Into the Next Part
Definition: A more energetic way to transition.
Explanation: Great for keeping engagement high.
Example:
“Let’s dive into the next part—the marketing strategy.”
Worst Use: Might be too perky for solemn topics.
Tone: Upbeat, motivating
9. Where Do We Go From Here?
Definition: A rhetorical way of prompting continuation.
Explanation: Thoughtful and reflective, especially in group settings.
Example:
“We’ve learned a lot—so, where do we go from here?”
Worst Use: May stall the conversation if not directed.
Tone: Reflective, open-ended
10. Let’s Pick Up Where We Left Off
Definition: Refers to resuming a previous topic.
Explanation: Useful for returning to an interrupted conversation.
Example:
“Let’s pick up where we left off yesterday—on the design options.”
Worst Use: Doesn’t apply to brand-new topics.
Tone: Familiar, clear
11. Let’s Keep Going
Definition: A simple way to maintain momentum.
Explanation: Works great when encouraging continued discussion.
Example:
“That was a great point—let’s keep going with your thoughts.”
Worst Use: Avoid when a pause or reflection is needed.
Tone: Encouraging, energetic
12. What Comes to Mind Next…
Definition: A gentle transition to the next idea.
Explanation: Makes your thought process feel natural and inclusive.
Example:
“What comes to mind next is how we can scale this plan.”
Worst Use: May seem vague if overused.
Tone: Thoughtful, reflective
13. Let’s Move On To…
Definition: A direct prompt to the next topic.
Explanation: Keeps meetings and conversations organized.
Example:
“Let’s move on to the financials for Q2.”
Worst Use: Can feel abrupt if tone isn’t softened.
Tone: Direct, structured
14. Before I Forget…
Definition: Used to reintroduce or prioritize a thought.
Explanation: Casual and spontaneous; helps realign the discussion.
Example:
“Before I forget, there’s one more thing I wanted to mention.”
Worst Use: Sounds informal in polished documents.
Tone: Casual, conversational
15. Another Thing I’d Like to Add…
Definition: Introduces a new or related idea.
Explanation: Signals continuation and relevance.
Example:
“Another thing I’d like to add is feedback from the clients.”
Worst Use: May feel redundant if the previous idea was complete.
Tone: Constructive, collaborative
16. While We’re on the Topic…
Definition: Leverages current discussion to add more.
Explanation: Keeps the conversation flowing without detouring.
Example:
“While we’re on the topic, let’s also address the new hires.”
Worst Use: Don’t use if changing subjects completely.
Tone: Seamless, relevant
17. Speaking of That…
Definition: Smoothly pivots from one thought to a related one.
Explanation: Good for spontaneous yet logical transitions.
Example:
“Speaking of that, did you see the updated timeline?”
Worst Use: Avoid when the topics aren’t connected.
Tone: Natural, informal
18. Let Me Circle Back to That Later
Definition: Postpones a response or topic until later.
Explanation: Shows consideration and planning.
Example:
“Good question—let me circle back to that after this section.”
Worst Use: Risky if you never return to it.
Tone: Respectful, mindful
19. Here’s Something Worth Mentioning
Definition: Introduces a new but valuable point.
Explanation: Emphasizes importance without disrupting flow.
Example:
“Here’s something worth mentioning—our competitors are testing this too.”
Worst Use: Overuse can make everything seem equally important.
Tone: Insightful, intentional
20. Let’s Tackle the Next Item
Definition: Keeps conversations structured and progressive.
Explanation: Excellent for formal meetings and agendas.
Example:
“Great discussion—let’s tackle the next item on our list.”
Worst Use: Too formal for casual chats.
Tone: Goal-oriented, clear
21. On a Related Note…
Definition: Bridges two connected thoughts.
Explanation: Keeps the conversation cohesive.
Example:
“On a related note, we should also review our outreach plan.”
Worst Use: Should not be used when ideas are completely unrelated.
Tone: Logical, smooth
22. Next Up…
Definition: Quick and casual way to introduce what’s next.
Explanation: Great for presentations or friendly discussions.
Example:
“Next up, let’s check in on the team’s progress.”
Worst Use: Feels too informal for legal or academic settings.
Tone: Breezy, casual
23. Let’s Explore That Further
Definition: Signals deeper inquiry into a topic.
Explanation: Encourages critical thinking and elaboration.
Example:
“That’s a great insight—let’s explore that further.”
Worst Use: Avoid if the group is pressed for time.
Tone: Analytical, inquisitive
24. Let Me Reframe That
Definition: Used when changing how an idea is presented.
Explanation: Helpful in clarifying or adjusting tone.
Example:
“Let me reframe that so it’s more actionable.”
Worst Use: Not necessary when original statement was already clear.
Tone: Diplomatic, thoughtful
25. Let’s Look at It Another Way
Definition: Introduces a new perspective.
Explanation: Useful for problem-solving and reflection.
Example:
“Let’s look at it another way—what if we outsource this?”
Worst Use: Can confuse others if the shift isn’t explained.
Tone: Reflective, strategic
26. Let’s Not Forget…
Definition: Highlights an important but possibly overlooked point.
Explanation: Brings attention back to key ideas.
Example:
“Let’s not forget the client deadlines next week.”
Worst Use: Avoid in emotionally sensitive conversations.
Tone: Focused, firm
27. While We’re Still On This…
Definition: Encourages staying on track a bit longer.
Explanation: Keeps momentum while still diving deeper.
Example:
“While we’re still on this, can we review last month’s results?”
Worst Use: May seem repetitive if topic is already well-covered.
Tone: Steady, conversational
28. I’d Like to Add Something Here
Definition: Offers additional insight without interruption.
Explanation: Helpful in group discussions or meetings.
Example:
“I’d like to add something here regarding timelines.”
Worst Use: Can be disruptive if tone is not respectful.
Tone: Collaborative, respectful
29. Let’s Not Get Ahead of Ourselves
Definition: A light warning to slow down or stay on track.
Explanation: Prevents premature leaps in conversation.
Example:
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves—we need more data first.”
Worst Use: May sound dismissive if said abruptly.
Tone: Grounding, cautious
30. Let’s Bring It Home
Definition: A motivational wrap-up phrase.
Explanation: Signals that you’re nearing the end or conclusion.
Example:
“We’ve come a long way—let’s bring it home with next steps.”
Worst Use: Too casual for high-stakes or somber topics.
Tone: Inspirational, driven
Conclusion
Knowing what to say and how to say it makes all the difference—especially during those in-between moments in conversations when you’re wondering, “What should I say next?” Whether you’re in a meeting, writing an email, or just chatting with a friend, these 30 thoughtful alternatives offer ways to transition, reflect, and connect without sounding awkward or unsure.
Some phrases are great for professional settings, like “Let’s move on to…” or “To continue,” while others work beautifully in casual conversations, such as “Before I forget…” or “Let me think for a moment.” By understanding the tone, context, and purpose of each alternative, you’ll be better equipped to keep communication natural, warm, and effective.
The next time you pause to gather your thoughts, you’ll have a whole toolkit of polished phrases ready to help you move forward—smoothly and confidently.
FAQs
1. What does “What to say next” actually mean?
It refers to the moment in a conversation when you’re unsure how to continue or transition. It can be a reflection of hesitation or the need for clarity.
2. Is it okay to use “What to say next” in professional emails?
Not typically. It’s better to use more polished alternatives like “To continue” or “Let’s move on to…” for clarity and confidence in professional settings.
3. What are some polite alternatives for “What to say next”?
Polite and thoughtful options include “Let me think for a moment,” “Here’s something worth mentioning,” or “As for what’s next…”
4. Can I use these alternatives in presentations or meetings?
Absolutely. Many of these alternatives—like “Now, moving forward,” “Next up,” or “Let’s bring it home”—are great for presentations, structured discussions, and guiding group attention.
5. Which alternatives are best for casual conversations?
For casual talks, phrases like “Before I forget…”, “Let’s keep going,” or “Speaking of that…” are perfect—friendly, relaxed, and natural.
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