Last updated on October 22nd, 2025 at 09:53 am
Ever found yourself in a conversation where you’re unsure what to say next?
Using different ways to express this thought can make you sound more natural, confident, and articulate.
Instead of pausing awkwardly, you can use alternative phrases to smoothly transition in a conversation.
These expressions help keep the dialogue flowing, making you appear more engaged and thoughtful.
From professional settings to friendly discussions, having a variety of phrases at your disposal ensures that your conversations remain lively and interactive.
In this guide, we’ll explore 29 other ways to say “what to say next”, each with a definition, description, and real-world examples.
All Other Ways to Say “What to Say Next”
- What’s the best way to continue?
- How should I proceed?
- Where do we go from here?
- What’s the next point?
- What’s the next step?
- How do I move forward?
- What’s an appropriate response?
- What’s the next topic?
- What should I say now?
- What’s a good follow-up?
- How do I transition?
- What’s relevant to mention next?
- How do I keep this going?
- What should come next?
- What else should I add?
- What’s worth mentioning now?
- What’s the logical next move?
- Where should we take this next?
- How can I continue the discussion?
- What’s the right thing to say now?
- What’s a natural follow-up?
- What’s the most important thing to say next?
- How do I carry this conversation forward?
- What’s an insightful next point?
- What’s an appropriate segue?
- What should I address next?
- How do I keep this interesting?
- What’s a smooth transition?
1. What’s the Best Way to Continue?
Definition: A phrase used to determine the ideal next step in a conversation.
Description: This is useful in both casual and professional conversations when you need to decide on the next talking point.
Usage Examples:
- After discussing the introduction, what’s the best way to continue?
- I’ve explained the basics—what’s the best way to continue from here?
2. How Should I Proceed?
Definition: A question asking for guidance on the next step in a conversation.
Description: This works well in formal settings where structured discussions are necessary.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve covered the main points. How should I proceed?
- I’ve introduced myself—how should I proceed with my pitch?
3. Where Do We Go from Here?
Definition: A phrase used to determine the next course of action.
Description: It’s great for discussions where multiple directions are possible.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve brainstormed ideas—where do we go from here?
- The meeting is going well; where do we go from here?
4. What’s the Next Point?
Definition: A direct way to ask about the following discussion topic.
Description: It’s useful when guiding structured meetings or speeches.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve finished the introduction—what’s the next point?
- After covering budgeting, what’s the next point on our list?
5. What’s the Next Step?
Definition: A phrase used to determine progress in a discussion or process.
Description: It’s ideal for decision-making or moving conversations forward.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve agreed on the proposal. What’s the next step?
- Now that we understand the problem, what’s the next step?
6. How Do I Move Forward?
Definition: A question about progressing smoothly in a discussion.
Description: It works well when you’re unsure how to transition.
Usage Examples:
- I’ve explained my idea—how do I move forward?
- How do I move forward after introducing the topic?
7. What’s an Appropriate Response?
Definition: A phrase used to consider the right reply in a conversation.
Description: It’s helpful in sensitive discussions where words matter.
Usage Examples:
- That was unexpected—what’s an appropriate response?
- I want to be professional—what’s an appropriate response here?
8. What’s the Next Topic?
Definition: A phrase used to shift discussions smoothly to another subject.
Description: It’s commonly used in meetings, interviews, and panel discussions.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve covered productivity—what’s the next topic?
- Let’s keep things moving—what’s the next topic?
9. What Should I Say Now?
Definition: A direct way to ask what to say next.
Description: It’s a casual phrase that helps when conversations feel stuck.
Usage Examples:
- I don’t want an awkward silence—what should I say now?
- I lost my train of thought—what should I say now?
10. What’s a Good Follow-Up?
Definition: A phrase that helps continue a conversation with relevance.
Description: It’s useful for interviews, networking, or social conversations.
Usage Examples:
- She just shared a personal story—what’s a good follow-up?
- I need to keep this engaging—what’s a good follow-up?
11. How Do I Transition?
Definition: A phrase used to determine the best way to shift topics smoothly.
Description: This is useful in structured discussions, ensuring a natural conversational flow.
Usage Examples:
- I’ve wrapped up my point—how do I transition to the next topic?
- How do I transition smoothly from introductions to the main discussion?
12. What’s Relevant to Mention Next?
Definition: A way to determine the most important thing to discuss next.
Description: It’s ideal for keeping conversations meaningful and focused.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve talked about the problem—what’s relevant to mention next?
- I want to keep the audience engaged—what’s relevant to mention next?
13. How Do I Keep This Going?
Definition: A phrase to figure out how to maintain a conversation’s flow.
Description: This is helpful when conversations slow down or reach a dead end.
Usage Examples:
- The discussion is getting quiet—how do I keep this going?
- I want this conversation to last—how do I keep this going?
14. What Should Come Next?
Definition: A phrase to decide the logical next part of a discussion.
Description: It ensures that your dialogue remains structured and engaging.
Usage Examples:
- I’ve explained the process—what should come next?
- What should come next in this presentation?
15. What Else Should I Add?
Definition: A phrase to consider if additional information is needed.
Description: This is useful for making sure nothing important is left out.
Usage Examples:
- That was my main idea—what else should I add?
- Before I move on, what else should I add?
16. What’s Worth Mentioning Now?
Definition: A phrase that helps prioritize information in a discussion.
Description: It’s ideal for filtering out unnecessary details.
Usage Examples:
- We’re short on time—what’s worth mentioning now?
- Before I wrap up, what’s worth mentioning now?
17. What’s the Logical Next Move?
Definition: A phrase used to determine the most strategic next step.
Description: It’s helpful in professional discussions and decision-making.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve covered the basics—what’s the logical next move?
- What’s the logical next move after this topic?
18. Where Should We Take This Next?
Definition: A way to decide how to progress a discussion.
Description: It’s useful when multiple conversation paths are available.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve gone over the plan—where should we take this next?
- This discussion is going well—where should we take this next?
19. How Can I Continue the Discussion?
Definition: A phrase that helps keep a conversation active.
Description: It’s great for making discussions more engaging and interactive.
Usage Examples:
- The topic is interesting—how can I continue the discussion?
- I don’t want this to end—how can I continue the discussion?
20. What’s the Right Thing to Say Now?
Definition: A phrase that helps decide on an appropriate next response.
Description: It’s useful when choosing words carefully in conversations.
Usage Examples:
- This is a sensitive topic—what’s the right thing to say now?
- I want to keep this friendly—what’s the right thing to say now?
21. What’s a Natural Follow-Up?
Definition: A phrase to determine a smooth continuation of a topic.
Description: It keeps conversations feeling effortless and engaging.
Usage Examples:
- I asked about her weekend—what’s a natural follow-up?
- He just shared a big update—what’s a natural follow-up?
22. What’s the Most Important Thing to Say Next?
Definition: A phrase used to prioritize key points in a conversation.
Description: It’s helpful when making sure critical topics are covered.
Usage Examples:
- We’re running out of time—what’s the most important thing to say next?
- Before we end, what’s the most important thing to say next?
23. How Do I Carry This Conversation Forward?
Definition: A phrase used to maintain engagement in a discussion.
Description: It works well in social or professional settings to avoid awkward silences.
Usage Examples:
- The energy is dropping—how do I carry this conversation forward?
- I don’t want this to end yet—how do I carry this conversation forward?
24. What’s an Insightful Next Point?
Definition: A phrase that helps introduce a thoughtful or meaningful topic.
Description: It’s great for adding depth to conversations.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve covered the basics—what’s an insightful next point?
- I want to make this more meaningful—what’s an insightful next point?
25. What’s an Appropriate Segue?
Definition: A phrase used to find a smooth transition between topics.
Description: It ensures conversations remain fluid without abrupt changes.
Usage Examples:
- We need to move on—what’s an appropriate segue?
- Before we switch topics, what’s an appropriate segue?
26. What Should I Address Next?
Definition: A phrase used to determine the next key topic.
Description: It helps structure conversations and maintain clarity.
Usage Examples:
- We’ve covered point one—what should I address next?
- I want to be thorough—what should I address next?
27. How Do I Keep This Interesting?
Definition: A phrase to maintain engagement and prevent dull conversations.
Description: It’s useful when trying to keep an audience or listener engaged.
Usage Examples:
- I don’t want to lose their attention—how do I keep this interesting?
- The energy is dropping—how do I keep this interesting?
28. What’s a Smooth Transition?
Definition: A phrase used to guide a conversation without abrupt changes.
Description: It’s ideal for maintaining a natural conversational rhythm.
Usage Examples:
- I need to change topics—what’s a smooth transition?
- Before I move on, what’s a smooth transition?
29. What’s the Best Way to Wrap This Up?
Definition: A phrase to conclude a conversation or topic effectively.
Description: It’s great for ensuring a strong and meaningful closing.
Usage Examples:
- We’re almost out of time—what’s the best way to wrap this up?
- Before we finish, what’s the best way to wrap this up?
🗣️ Other Ways to Say “What to Say Next in a Sentence”
Definition:
Alternative phrases or transitions that smoothly guide your reader from one idea to the next within a sentence.
Description:
Writers often look for creative and professional ways to indicate what comes next. Instead of repeatedly using “next,” you can choose transition words that sound natural and improve flow. Moreover, using variety helps your writing sound polished, engaging, and easy to follow. Therefore, these alternatives enhance clarity and readability while maintaining a professional tone.
Usage Examples:
- Instead of saying next, you could say afterward to keep the sentence flowing naturally.
- Furthermore, this approach helps readers stay connected to your main point.
💌 Other Ways to Say “What to Say Next in a Letter”
Definition:
Phrases that indicate the continuation of ideas or topics when writing a letter or email.
Description:
When composing a letter, smooth transitions create a polite and coherent flow. Instead of repeating “next,” you can use expressions like moving forward, on another note, or as we continue. These transitions not only make your message more professional but also guide your reader naturally through each section. Additionally, they help you sound confident and courteous.
Usage Examples:
- Moving forward, I’d like to discuss our next meeting date.
- On another note, thank you for your thoughtful feedback.
💼 How to Say “Next Time” Professionally
Definition:
Polished alternatives to express the idea of a future opportunity or occasion.
Description:
In professional settings, “next time” can sound too casual. Therefore, phrases like on a future occasion, in the upcoming meeting, or during our next discussion work better. These alternatives maintain professionalism while still sounding friendly and approachable. Moreover, they show respect for your reader’s time and attention.
Usage Examples:
- On a future occasion, we can explore that idea further.
- During our next discussion, I’d love to hear your insights.
✍️ Another Word for “Next” in an Essay
Definition:
Formal transitions or synonyms that replace “next” to maintain academic tone and flow.
Description:
When writing essays, variety is key. Using “next” repeatedly can weaken your argument’s structure. Therefore, consider terms like subsequently, following this, or moving on. These transitions create a logical flow while keeping your essay sophisticated. Additionally, they improve readability and coherence between paragraphs.
Usage Examples:
- Subsequently, the study revealed significant data on climate patterns.
- Following this, we can analyze the results more closely.
🧾 “Next” Synonyms (Formal Alternatives)
Definition:
Refined words or phrases that can substitute “next” in formal writing or speech.
Description:
Formal contexts require precise and elegant language. Instead of simply saying “next,” try using subsequent, forthcoming, ensuing, or following. These words sound more polished and suitable for essays, reports, or official communication. Moreover, they help maintain a consistent academic or business tone throughout your writing.
Usage Examples:
- The subsequent chapter discusses leadership strategies.
- The ensuing discussion focused on policy improvements.
Conclusion:
Conversations flow best when you know exactly what to say next.
Using these 29 alternatives, you’ll always have a smooth and natural way to transition, whether in a casual chat, business meeting, or presentation.
Try incorporating these phrases into your daily conversations and notice how effortlessly you keep discussions engaging and meaningful. The right words can make all the difference!
