Other Ways to Say “Secondly” | Polished Alternatives That Flow In 2026

Quick Answer:
Looking for alternatives to “secondly”? Try next, furthermore, moreover, in addition, or subsequently. These synonyms work across formal writing, professional emails, and everyday conversation to help you express your second point more naturally.

The word “secondly” is a common transition adverb used to introduce the second point, reason, or step in a sequence. You’ve likely used it countless times when listing arguments, explaining processes, or structuring presentations. While it gets the job done, relying on it too often can make your English sound repetitive and uninspired.

Learning alternatives to “secondly” is one of the quickest ways to elevate your fluency. Whether you are writing a business report, delivering a presentation, or simply having a conversation, varying your transition words makes you sound more polished and confident. It also helps you express excitement in English by keeping your listener engaged with fresh, dynamic language.

“The right transition word at the right moment can transform a clumsy sentence into a confident statement.”

Table of Contents

Quick Categories

Formal Alternatives to “Secondly”

Furthermore
Moreover
Subsequently
In the second place
Additionally
A further consideration is

Casual Alternatives

Next
Then
After that
Also
Plus

Professional Alternatives

In addition
Another key point
Following this
Building on that
Equally important

Informal Expressions

On top of that
What’s more
Moving on
Likewise
Not only that

What Does “Secondly” Mean?

Secondly is an adverb that means “in the second place” or “as a second point.” It is used to introduce the second item in a sequence of ideas, arguments, steps, or reasons.

Grammar note: “Secondly” is a conjunctive adverb it connects two clauses or sentences and shows the relationship between them. It typically appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause, followed by a comma.

Example sentence: “Firstly, we need to review the budget; secondly, we must allocate resources to each department.”

When to Use “Secondly”

Use “secondly” when you are:

Presenting a numbered list of arguments or reasons
Explaining a step-by-step process
Structuring a speech or presentation
Writing formal essays or academic papers
Organizing ideas in professional correspondence

Spoken vs Written: “Secondly” appears more often in formal writing than in casual speech. In conversation, native speakers usually prefer simpler transitions like “next” or “then.”

Formal vs Informal: “Secondly” leans formal. While acceptable in academic and professional contexts, it can feel stiff in everyday conversation.

“Great communicators don’t just know words they know when to use them.”

Is It Professional or Polite to Say “Secondly”?

Polite? ✔️ Yes it is neutral and courteous.

Professional? ❌ Not in most cases while not incorrect, “secondly” can sound dated and overly mechanical in modern business communication. Professionals today prefer smoother, more natural transitions like “furthermore” or “in addition.”

Business-style example: “Our primary concern is customer satisfaction. Furthermore, we must ensure our team has the resources to deliver on that promise.”

Pros and Cons of Using “Secondly”

Pros

Simple and easy to understand
Clearly signals the second point
Commonly used and widely accepted
Works in both spoken and written English

Cons

Sounds too formal for casual conversation
Can feel repetitive when overused
Lacks nuance and emotional range
Not suitable for creative or informal writing

Other Ways to Say “Secondly” (With Examples)

These 30 alternatives will help you sound more fluent, confident, and natural in different situations. Use them according to tone, context, and audience to express your second point with precision.

1. Phrase: Next

Meaning: Immediately following in order or sequence.

Explanation: A simple, strong alternative that works in almost any context.

Example Sentence: “First, gather all the materials. Next, assemble the components according to the manual.”

Best Use: Instructions

Worst Use: Formal academic essays

Tone: Neutral, clear

Context Variability: Casual: “Next, we went to the store.” / Professional: “Next, I will address our quarterly targets.”

2. Phrase: Furthermore

Meaning: In addition to what has just been stated.

Explanation: Adds weight to your second point, implying it strengthens the first.

Example Sentence: “The proposal is cost-effective. Furthermore, it requires minimal training for staff.”

Best Use: Persuasive writing

Worst Use: Casual conversation

Tone: Formal, persuasive

Context Variability: Professional: “Furthermore, the data supports this conclusion.” / Formal: “Furthermore, we must consider the ethical implications.”

3. Phrase: Moreover

Meaning: As an additional and important point.

Explanation: Similar to “furthermore” but often carries a slightly stronger sense of adding significant information.

Example Sentence: “The new software increases efficiency. Moreover, it reduces operational costs by 15%.”

Best Use: Academic writing

Worst Use: Text messages

Tone: Formal, emphatic

Context Variability: Professional: “Moreover, this strategy aligns with our long-term goals.” / Formal: “Moreover, the evidence is overwhelming.”

4. Phrase: Subsequently

Meaning: After a particular thing has happened; afterward.

Explanation: Emphasizes a time-based sequence, ideal for describing events that follow one another.

Example Sentence: “The committee approved the proposal. Subsequently, the implementation team began work.”

Best Use: Chronological narratives

Worst Use: Listing unrelated points

Tone: Formal, sequential

Context Variability: Professional: “Subsequently, we revised our strategy.” / Formal: “The data was collected and subsequently analyzed.”

5. Phrase: In addition

Meaning: As an extra point or factor.

Explanation: A neutral, professional way to introduce another item to your list.

Example Sentence: “We need to increase our marketing budget. In addition, we should hire a social media specialist.”

Best Use: Business communication

Worst Use: Very informal settings

Tone: Professional, neutral

Context Variability: Professional: “In addition, we offer free shipping.” / Casual: “In addition, I brought snacks.”

6. Phrase: Additionally

Meaning: As a further point; also.

Explanation: A versatile alternative that fits almost any context.

Example Sentence: “The course covers basic grammar. Additionally, it includes advanced writing techniques.”

Best Use: Almost any context

Worst Use: Overusing in a single paragraph

Tone: Neutral, professional

Context Variability: Professional: “Additionally, we provide ongoing support.” / Casual: “Additionally, I think we should leave early.”

7. Phrase: Then

Meaning: After that; next in order.

Explanation: One of the simplest and most natural alternatives.

Example Sentence: “Press the power button. Then, wait for the system to boot up.”

Best Use: Step-by-step instructions

Worst Use: Formal academic papers

Tone: Casual, straightforward

Context Variability: Casual: “We had dinner, then we went to the movies.” / Professional: “Review the document, then sign it.”

8. Phrase: Following that

Meaning: Coming immediately after in time or order.

Explanation: Emphasizes the direct sequence between two points.

Example Sentence: “We will finalize the design. Following that, we will begin production.”

Best Use: Project timelines

Worst Use: Quick, casual lists

Tone: Professional, sequential

Context Variability: Professional: “Following that, we’ll conduct user testing.” / Formal: “Following that, a new phase will commence.”

9. Phrase: In the second place

Meaning: As the second item or point.

Explanation: A more formal version of “secondly” that sounds slightly more deliberate.

Example Sentence: “In the first place, we lack funding. In the second place, we don’t have the right team.”

Best Use: Formal arguments

Worst Use: Everyday conversation

Tone: Formal, structured

Context Variability: Formal: “In the second place, the evidence is inconclusive.” / Professional: “In the second place, we must consider logistics.”

10. Phrase: Another point is

Meaning: Introduces an additional point or consideration.

Explanation: A clear, straightforward way to add to your list.

Example Sentence: “Another point is that remote work improves employee satisfaction.”

Best Use: Meetings and discussions

Worst Use: Very formal writing

Tone: Conversational, clear

Context Variability: Professional: “Another point is our budget constraints.” / Casual: “Another point is that I don’t like sushi.”

11. Phrase: A further consideration is

Meaning: Introduces an additional factor to think about.

Explanation: A polished, thoughtful way to add a second point.

Example Sentence: “A further consideration is the environmental impact of our packaging.”

Best Use: Reports and proposals

Worst Use: Casual chats

Tone: Formal, analytical

Context Variability: Formal: “A further consideration is long-term sustainability.” / Professional: “A further consideration is staff training.”

12. Phrase: Equally important

Meaning: Indicates that the second point carries the same weight as the first.

Explanation: Perfect when you want to emphasize that your second point is just as significant.

Example Sentence: “We need to improve our product quality. Equally important, we must enhance customer service.”

Best Use: Persuasive arguments

Worst Use: Listing trivial points

Tone: Emphatic, professional

Context Variability: Professional: “Equally important is our commitment to diversity.” / Formal: “Equally important, the methodology must be sound.”

13. Phrase: Building on that

Meaning: Adding to or expanding upon the previous point.

Explanation: Creates a sense of progression and development in your argument.

Example Sentence: “We have a strong brand identity. Building on that, we should launch a new marketing campaign.”

Best Use: Strategic discussions

Worst Use: Simple lists

Tone: Dynamic, professional

Context Variability: Professional: “Building on that, let’s explore new markets.” / Casual: “Building on that, I think we should try something new.”

14. Phrase: Following this

Meaning: Coming after this point in the sequence.

Explanation: A smooth, professional transition for structured writing.

Example Sentence: “We will analyze the data. Following this, we will draft the report.”

Best Use: Process descriptions

Worst Use: Quick, informal notes

Tone: Formal, sequential

Context Variability: Formal: “Following this, the results will be published.” / Professional: “Following this, we’ll schedule a review.”

15. Phrase: Also

Meaning: In addition; too.

Explanation: One of the most common and versatile alternatives.

Example Sentence: “We need to hire a developer. Also, we should upgrade our servers.”

Best Use: Everyday conversation

Worst Use: Formal academic writing

Tone: Casual, simple

Context Variability: Casual: “I’m tired. Also, I’m hungry.” / Professional: “Also, please review the attached document.”

16. Phrase: Plus

Meaning: As an additional point; also.

Explanation: Informal and conversational, great for spoken English.

Example Sentence: “The hotel has a pool. Plus, it offers free breakfast.”

Best Use: Casual conversation

Worst Use: Business reports

Tone: Informal, friendly

Context Variability: Casual: “I like this car. Plus, it’s affordable.” / Professional: Avoid in formal writing.

“Alternatives to ‘secondly’ are not just synonyms they are tools for better communication.”

17. Phrase: On top of that

Meaning: In addition to everything already mentioned.

Explanation: An informal, emphatic way to add another point.

Example Sentence: “The project is behind schedule. On top of that, we’ve exceeded our budget.”

Best Use: Informal spoken English

Worst Use: Formal writing

Tone: Informal, emphatic

Context Variability: Casual: “On top of that, it started raining.” / Professional: Avoid.

18. Phrase: What’s more

Meaning: As an additional and often surprising point.

Explanation: Adds a layer of emphasis, often introducing information that strengthens your case.

Example Sentence: “The restaurant has excellent food. What’s more, the service is outstanding.”

Best Use: Persuasive speech

Worst Use: Academic papers

Tone: Conversational, persuasive

Context Variability: Casual: “What’s more, they gave us a discount.” / Professional: “What’s more, our competitors are struggling.”

19. Phrase: Moving on

Meaning: Transitioning to the next point.

Explanation: A natural way to shift focus, especially in presentations.

Example Sentence: “We’ve covered the budget. Moving on, let’s discuss the timeline.”

Best Use: Presentations and meetings

Worst Use: Formal essays

Tone: Professional, conversational

Context Variability: Professional: “Moving on, I’d like to introduce our new strategy.” / Casual: “Moving on, what’s for lunch?”

20. Phrase: Likewise

Meaning: In a similar way; also.

Explanation: Works well when your second point is similar to or supports the first.

Example Sentence: “We need to increase sales. Likewise, we must improve customer retention.”

Best Use: Comparative arguments

Worst Use: When points are unrelated

Tone: Formal, comparative

Context Variability: Formal: “Likewise, the second experiment yielded similar results.” / Professional: “Likewise, our competitors are facing the same challenges.”

21. Phrase: Not only that

Meaning: In addition to what was just mentioned.

Explanation: An informal way to add a second, often surprising, point.

Example Sentence: “The movie was funny. Not only that, it was also surprisingly touching.”

Best Use: Informal storytelling

Worst Use: Formal documents

Tone: Informal, enthusiastic

Context Variability: Casual: “Not only that, but he also paid for dinner.” / Professional: Avoid.

22. Phrase: After that

Meaning: Following that in time or order.

Explanation: A simple, clear transition for describing sequences.

Example Sentence: “We’ll finish the prototype. After that, we’ll test it with users.”

Best Use: Step-by-step explanations

Worst Use: Formal essays

Tone: Neutral, clear

Context Variability: Casual: “We ate lunch. After that, we went for a walk.” / Professional: “After that, we’ll review the findings.”

23. Phrase: A second point is

Meaning: Introduces the second point in a sequence.

Explanation: A direct and unambiguous alternative.

Example Sentence: “A second point is the importance of employee well-being.”

Best Use: Structured arguments

Worst Use: Creative writing

Tone: Formal, clear

Context Variability: Formal: “A second point is the methodology’s reliability.” / Professional: “A second point is our pricing strategy.”

24. Phrase: Another key aspect

Meaning: Introduces another important element.

Explanation: Emphasizes that the second point is significant.

Example Sentence: “Another key aspect is the user experience design.”

Best Use: Project reviews

Worst Use: Casual conversation

Tone: Professional, analytical

Context Variability: Professional: “Another key aspect is supply chain management.” / Formal: “Another key aspect is the theoretical framework.”

25. Phrase: In turn

Meaning: As a result or consequence; in the next place.

Explanation: Suggests a causal or logical sequence between points.

Example Sentence: “We invested in new technology. In turn, productivity increased significantly.”

Best Use: Cause-and-effect explanations

Worst Use: Simple lists

Tone: Formal, logical

Context Variability: Formal: “This led to higher costs, which in turn affected pricing.” / Professional: “In turn, this improved our reputation.”

26. Phrase: From there

Meaning: Moving forward from that point.

Explanation: A conversational way to indicate the next step.

Example Sentence: “We’ll establish our brand presence. From there, we can expand into new markets.”

Best Use: Strategic planning

Worst Use: Academic writing

Tone: Conversational, strategic

Context Variability: Professional: “From there, we’ll scale our operations.” / Casual: “From there, we drove to the beach.”

27. Phrase: Besides

Meaning: In addition to; as well as.

Explanation: Often used to add a point that reinforces or supports the previous one.

Example Sentence: “We don’t have the budget. Besides, the timing isn’t right.”

Best Use: Casual and semi-formal contexts

Worst Use: Very formal writing

Tone: Neutral, conversational

Context Variability: Casual: “Besides, I don’t even like coffee.” / Professional: “Besides, we have other priorities.”

28. Phrase: In continuation

Meaning: Continuing with the next point.

Explanation: A formal way to indicate that you are extending your argument.

Example Sentence: “In continuation of our discussion, let’s examine the financial implications.”

Best Use: Formal meetings and documents

Worst Use: Everyday speech

Tone: Formal, structured

Context Variability: Formal: “In continuation, we present the following findings.” / Professional: “In continuation, I’d like to add another perspective.”

29. Phrase: Later

Meaning: At a subsequent time.

Explanation: Emphasizes the timing rather than the order of points.

Example Sentence: “We’ll address the budget now. Later, we’ll discuss resource allocation.”

Best Use: Time-based sequences

Worst Use: Formal lists

Tone: Casual, clear

Context Variability: Casual: “We’ll have lunch now. Later, we’ll go to the museum.” / Professional: “Later, we’ll review the proposals.”

30. Phrase: Thereafter

Meaning: After that time; from that point onward.

Explanation: A formal, somewhat literary alternative for describing what follows.

Example Sentence: “The contract was signed in January. Thereafter, construction began immediately.”

Best Use: Legal and formal documents

Worst Use: Everyday conversation

Tone: Formal, legal

Context Variability: Formal: “Thereafter, the company experienced steady growth.” / Professional: “Thereafter, we implemented the new policy.”

“Fluency isn’t about knowing more words it’s about knowing which word fits the moment.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using “secondly” without a “firstly”

Mistake: “Secondly, we need to improve our website.” (with no first point mentioned)

Correction: Always pair “secondly” with a preceding first point. If you haven’t used “firstly,” use a different transition like “in addition” or “furthermore.”

2. Overusing “secondly” in a single piece of writing

Mistake: “Firstly… secondly… thirdly… fourthly…” this becomes monotonous.

Correction: Vary your transitions. Use “next,” “in addition,” and “finally” to keep your writing engaging.

3. Using “subsequently” for simultaneous events

Mistake: “The team discussed the issue and subsequently made a decision at the same meeting.”

Correction: “Subsequently” implies a time gap. Use “then” or “also” for simultaneous actions.

4. Using “secondly” in casual conversation

Mistake: “I want pizza. Secondly, I want ice cream.”

Correction: In casual speech, use “next,” “then,” or “also.” “Secondly” sounds overly formal.

5. Forgetting the comma after “secondly”

Mistake: “Secondly we should consider the cost.”

Correction: “Secondly, we should consider the cost.” Always use a comma after introductory transition words.

Mini Quiz / Self-Check

1. Which alternative is best for a formal business report?

A) Plus
B) Moreover
C) On top of that

Answer: B) Moreover it’s formal and professional.

2. You’re giving a casual presentation to colleagues. Which transition sounds most natural?

A) In the second place
B) Subsequently
C) Next

Answer: C) Next it’s clear, natural, and professional enough for most workplace settings.

3. Which phrase emphasizes that your second point is just as important as the first?

A) Furthermore
B) Equally important
C) After that

Answer: B) Equally important it explicitly signals equal significance.

4. You’re writing an academic paper. Which alternative should you avoid?

A) Moreover
B) Additionally
C) What’s more

Answer: C) What’s more it’s too informal for academic writing.

Comparison Table: Top 10 Alternatives

Phrase	Tone	Best Use
Next	Neutral	Instructions and step-by-step guides
Furthermore	Formal	Persuasive and academic writing
Moreover	Formal	Adding significant supporting points
Subsequently	Formal	Chronological sequences
In addition	Professional	Business communication
Additionally	Neutral	Almost any professional context
Then	Casual	Everyday conversation and simple instructions
Equally important	Emphatic	Emphasizing equal significance
Building on that	Professional	Strategic discussions and presentations
Likewise	Formal	Comparative arguments

FAQs

1. Is “secondly” grammatically correct?

Yes, “secondly” is grammatically correct. It is an adverb used to introduce the second point in a sequence. However, many style guides suggest using “second” instead of “secondly” in formal writing because the “-ly” ending is unnecessary.

2. What is the best formal alternative to “secondly”?

“Furthermore” and “moreover” are excellent formal alternatives. They add weight to your argument and sound polished in academic and professional writing.

3. Can I use “secondly” in a professional email?

Yes, but it can sound a bit stiff. For modern professional emails, consider using “in addition,” “next,” or “additionally” instead. These sound more natural and conversational while remaining professional.

4. What is the difference between “secondly” and “subsequently”?

“Secondly” introduces the second point in a list or argument. “Subsequently” means “afterward” and emphasizes a time-based sequence. Use “subsequently” when describing events that happen one after another.

5. Is it okay to use “secondly” in IELTS or TOEFL writing?

Yes, but using it sparingly is better. Examiners look for a range of vocabulary. Using varied transitions like “furthermore,” “moreover,” and “in addition” will help you score higher on lexical resource.

Conclusion

Learning alternatives to “secondly” is a small change that makes a big difference in your English fluency. Whether you are writing a formal report, delivering a presentation, or having a casual conversation, choosing the right transition word helps you sound more confident, professional, and engaging. The key is not just knowing the alternatives but understanding when and how to use them.

Start by replacing “secondly” with one new alternative each day. Practice using it in emails, conversations, and writing. Over time, these alternatives will become second nature, and your English will feel more dynamic and expressive. Remember: the right tone makes your English sound professional and confident.