Quick Answer
Looking for alternatives to “when it comes to”? Try these top options: Regarding, Concerning, In Terms Of, With Respect To, and As For. Each suits different tones and contexts choose based on whether you’re writing formally, speaking casually, or communicating professionally.
The phrase “when it comes to” is one of the most common expressions in everyday English. We use it constantly to introduce topics, shift focus, or highlight specific areas of discussion. It’s natural, friendly, and easy to understand.
But there’s a problem: overusing it makes your English sound repetitive and basic. Whether you’re writing an email, preparing a presentation, or having a conversation, relying on the same phrase weakens your impact.
That’s why learning alternatives to “when it comes to” is essential. These alternatives help you express excitement in English, sound more professional, and adapt your tone to any situation.
“The right tone makes your English sound professional and confident.”
Quick Categories
Formal Alternatives to “When It Comes To”
- Regarding
- Concerning
- With Respect To
- In Relation To
- Pertaining To
- In The Matter Of
Casual Alternatives
- As For
- Talking About
- When It Comes Down To
- Speaking Of
- On The Subject Of
Professional Alternatives
- In Terms Of
- In Regard To
- As It Relates To
- From The Perspective Of
- In Connection With
Informal Expressions
- As Far As … Is Concerned
- When You Think About
- Looking At
- Focusing On
- When We Talk About
💡 Pro Tip: Match your phrase to your audience. Formal alternatives build credibility in reports and emails. Casual options keep conversations natural and engaging.
Common Mistakes Using “When It Comes To”
- Using it too frequently – Repetition makes writing dull.
- ❌ “When it comes to sales, when it comes to marketing, and when it comes to customer service…”
- Using it in formal academic writing – It’s considered informal.
- ❌ “When it comes to quantum mechanics, the theory is complex.”
- Using it with a verb instead of a noun – It should be followed by a noun or gerund.
- ❌ “When it comes to improve productivity…”
- ✅ “When it comes to improving productivity…”
- Confusing it with “when it comes down to” – They have different meanings.
- ❌ “When it comes down to cooking, she’s amazing.” (should be “when it comes to”)
- Using it in very short sentences – It adds unnecessary words.
- ❌ “When it comes to him, he’s nice.” → ✅ “He’s nice.”
What Does “When It Comes To” Mean?
When it comes to is an idiomatic phrase used to indicate the specific topic, person, or situation being discussed. It functions as a prepositional phrase that narrows the scope of conversation, drawing attention to a particular subject.
Example: “When it comes to public speaking, practice is everything.”
The phrase sets up the topic (“public speaking”) so the main point (“practice is everything”) can be delivered with clarity.
When to Use “When It Comes To”
Use this phrase when you want to:
- Introduce a new topic in conversation
- Shift focus to a specific area
- Give an opinion about a particular subject
- Compare different aspects of a situation
Spoken vs Written: More common in spoken English and informal writing. Less suitable for formal reports or academic papers.
Formal vs Informal: Generally informal. For professional communication, choose formal alternatives.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “When It Comes To”?
Polite? ✔️ Yes – it’s friendly and approachable.
Professional? ❌ No – in most business and academic contexts, it’s considered too casual.
Business Example (Better Alternative):
“Regarding the quarterly projections, we need to adjust our strategy.”
This sounds more polished and authoritative than “When it comes to the quarterly projections…”
Pros and Cons of Using “When It Comes To”
Pros
- Simple and natural
- Friendly, conversational tone
- Widely understood by all English speakers
- Easy to use in everyday speech
Cons
- Too informal for professional writing
- Overused and repetitive
- Limited emotional range
- Not suitable for formal or academic contexts
Other Ways to Say “When It Comes To” (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 yourself with precision.
1. Phrase: Regarding
Meaning: About a specific subject.
Explanation: A versatile formal synonym that works in most professional and written contexts.
Example Sentence: “Regarding your application, we’ll be in touch within 48 hours.”
Best Use: Professional emails
Worst Use: Casual chats with friends
Tone: Formal, Neutral
Context Variability: Professional / Formal writing / Spoken
2. Phrase: Concerning
Meaning: In relation to something.
Explanation: Often used to express interest or address a particular matter in formal discussions.
Example Sentence: “Concerning the budget cuts, we need to reassess our priorities.”
Best Use: Formal reports
Worst Use: Everyday conversation
Tone: Serious, Formal
Context Variability: Professional / Academic
3. Phrase: In Terms Of
Meaning: From a particular perspective.
Explanation: Very common and slightly formal, useful for comparisons and explanations.
Example Sentence: “In terms of customer satisfaction, we’re leading the market.”
Best Use: Business presentations
Worst Use: Very casual speech
Tone: Professional, Analytical
Context Variability: Professional / Academic / Spoken
4. Phrase: With Respect To
Meaning: In relation to a particular matter.
Explanation: Sounds polite and structured, ideal for professional and academic writing.
Example Sentence: “With respect to your inquiry, we’ve attached the relevant documents.”
Best Use: Formal correspondence
Worst Use: Text messages
Tone: Polite, Structured
Context Variability: Professional / Formal
5. Phrase: As For
Meaning: Shifting focus to a new topic.
Explanation: Short, natural, and works well in informal conversation.
Example Sentence: “As for the marketing strategy, we’ll finalize it next week.”
Best Use: Casual meetings
Worst Use: Academic papers
Tone: Casual, Conversational
Context Variability: Casual / Spoken
6. Phrase: In Relation To
Meaning: Connected to something.
Explanation: Good for analytical writing and formal reports.
Example Sentence: “The policy was updated in relation to new safety regulations.”
Best Use: Official documents
Worst Use: Friendly conversation
Tone: Formal, Analytical
Context Variability: Professional / Academic
7. Phrase: As Far As … Is Concerned
Meaning: Talking about a specific aspect.
Explanation: Neutral and conversational, works well in spoken English.
Example Sentence: “As far as customer service is concerned, they’re excellent.”
Best Use: Spoken evaluations
Worst Use: Formal writing
Tone: Neutral, Conversational
Context Variability: Spoken / Semi-formal
8. Phrase: With Regard To
Meaning: About a particular issue.
Explanation: Slightly formal and common in professional emails.
Example Sentence: “With regard to your complaint, we’re investigating the matter.”
Best Use: Business emails
Worst Use: Casual speech
Tone: Professional, Polite
Context Variability: Professional / Written
9. Phrase: In The Context Of
Meaning: Within a specific framework or situation.
Explanation: Useful when discussing how something fits into a broader picture.
Example Sentence: “In the context of global markets, our growth is modest.”
Best Use: Analytical discussions
Worst Use: Everyday chat
Tone: Analytical, Formal
Context Variability: Academic / Professional
10. Phrase: Pertaining To
Meaning: Relating to or concerning something.
Explanation: A formal alternative that adds sophistication to writing.
Example Sentence: “Documents pertaining to the merger are confidential.”
Best Use: Legal or official writing
Worst Use: Casual conversation
Tone: Very Formal
Context Variability: Legal / Official
11. Phrase: In Connection With
Meaning: Related to or associated with something.
Explanation: Often used in official or investigative contexts.
Example Sentence: “We’re reviewing the data in connection with the recent findings.”
Best Use: Official statements
Worst Use: Informal chats
Tone: Formal, Official
Context Variability: Professional / Legal
12. Phrase: On The Subject Of
Meaning: Introducing a topic.
Explanation: Great for transitions in both casual and semi-formal settings.
Example Sentence: “On the subject of deadlines, we need more clarity.”
Best Use: Meetings and discussions
Worst Use: Very formal writing
Tone: Semi-formal
Context Variability: Spoken / Semi-formal
13. Phrase: When It Comes Down To
Meaning: Focusing on the most important point.
Explanation: Adds emphasis and is often used in persuasive speech.
Example Sentence: “When it comes down to trust, honesty matters most.”
Best Use: Persuasive conversations
Worst Use: Academic writing
Tone: Emphatic, Conversational
Context Variability: Spoken / Informal
14. Phrase: In The Matter Of
Meaning: Regarding a specific issue.
Explanation: Sounds serious and is often used in legal or formal contexts.
Example Sentence: “In the matter of late payments, immediate action is required.”
Best Use: Legal or formal notices
Worst Use: Everyday talk
Tone: Serious, Formal
Context Variability: Legal / Official
15. Phrase: From The Perspective Of
Meaning: Viewing something from a certain angle.
Explanation: Useful for sharing opinions in academic or analytical writing.
Example Sentence: “From the perspective of students, the course is too demanding.”
Best Use: Academic essays
Worst Use: Quick conversations
Tone: Analytical, Academic
Context Variability: Academic / Professional
16. Phrase: As It Relates To
Meaning: How something connects to another.
Explanation: Clear and precise, works well in formal writing.
Example Sentence: “As it relates to health, diet is absolutely crucial.”
Best Use: Research papers
Worst Use: Informal speech
Tone: Precise, Formal
Context Variability: Academic / Professional
17. Phrase: In Regard To
Meaning: About a particular issue.
Explanation: Professional and commonly used in business emails.
Example Sentence: “In regard to your application, we’ll reply by Friday.”
Best Use: Professional correspondence
Worst Use: Casual texting
Tone: Professional, Polite
Context Variability: Professional / Written
18. Phrase: Speaking Of
Meaning: Introducing a topic that was just mentioned.
Explanation: Very natural in conversation for making connections.
Example Sentence: “Speaking of travel, have you been to Italy?”
Best Use: Casual conversations
Worst Use: Formal writing
Tone: Casual, Friendly
Context Variability: Spoken / Informal
19. Phrase: Talking About
Meaning: Informally introducing a topic.
Explanation: Common in spoken English, but avoid in formal writing.
Example Sentence: “Talking about exams, this one was surprisingly tough.”
Best Use: Everyday speech
Worst Use: Professional documents
Tone: Casual, Conversational
Context Variability: Spoken / Informal
20. Phrase: Looking At
Meaning: Examining or considering something.
Explanation: A modern, natural way to introduce an analysis.
Example Sentence: “Looking at the data, we see a clear trend.”
Best Use: Presentations and discussions
Worst Use: Very formal writing
Tone: Analytical, Modern
Context Variability: Professional / Spoken
21. Phrase: Focusing On
Meaning: Giving special attention to something.
Explanation: Direct and clear, works in both spoken and written English.
Example Sentence: “Focusing on customer retention, we’ve launched a new program.”
Best Use: Business meetings
Worst Use: Academic papers
Tone: Direct, Professional
Context Variability: Professional / Spoken
22. Phrase: When We Talk About
Meaning: Introducing a topic in conversation.
Explanation: Very natural and conversational.
Example Sentence: “When we talk about innovation, this company leads the way.”
Best Use: Casual discussions
Worst Use: Formal writing
Tone: Conversational
Context Variability: Spoken / Informal
23. Phrase: Turning To
Meaning: Shifting attention to a new topic.
Explanation: Useful for transitions in speeches and presentations.
Example Sentence: “Turning to our next agenda item, let’s discuss the budget.”
Best Use: Presentations
Worst Use: Casual chats
Tone: Professional, Transitional
Context Variability: Professional / Spoken
24. Phrase: With Reference To
Meaning: Referring to something specific.
Explanation: Formal and often used in official correspondence.
Example Sentence: “With reference to your email dated March 15, we have reviewed the proposal.”
Best Use: Formal letters
Worst Use: Everyday speech
Tone: Very Formal
Context Variability: Official / Written
25. Phrase: In Respect Of
Meaning: Concerning a particular aspect.
Explanation: A more formal variation of “with respect to.”
Example Sentence: “In respect of your request, we have made the necessary changes.”
Best Use: Formal documents
Worst Use: Casual conversation
Tone: Formal, Polite
Context Variability: Professional / Official
26. Phrase: As Concerns
Meaning: Regarding or concerning.
Explanation: A slightly old-fashioned but formal alternative.
Example Sentence: “As concerns the new policy, we’ll provide training next month.”
Best Use: Formal announcements
Worst Use: Modern casual speech
Tone: Formal, Traditional
Context Variability: Professional / Written
27. Phrase: In The Case Of
Meaning: When dealing with a specific instance.
Explanation: Useful when discussing particular examples or scenarios.
Example Sentence: “In the case of emergency, follow the evacuation plan.”
Best Use: Instructions and guidelines
Worst Use: General conversation
Tone: Instructional, Formal
Context Variability: Professional / Official
28. Phrase: Vis-À-Vis
Meaning: In relation to or compared with.
Explanation: A French-origin term used in formal or academic English.
Example Sentence: “The company’s position vis-à-vis its competitors is strong.”
Best Use: Academic or business analysis
Worst Use: Casual speech
Tone: Sophisticated, Formal
Context Variability: Academic / Professional
29. Phrase: In Consideration Of
Meaning: Taking something into account.
Explanation: Formal and often used in decision-making contexts.
Example Sentence: “In consideration of your experience, we’re offering you the role.”
Best Use: Official decisions
Worst Use: Everyday talk
Tone: Formal, Thoughtful
Context Variability: Professional / Official
30. Phrase: Relative To
Meaning: In comparison or relation to something.
Explanation: Formal and useful for comparisons.
Example Sentence: “Relative to last year, our profits have increased significantly.”
Best Use: Reports and analysis
Worst Use: Casual conversation
Tone: Analytical, Formal
Context Variability: Professional / Academic
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just replace “when it comes to” randomly. Consider your audience, purpose, and setting. A formal report needs “regarding” or “with respect to.” A casual chat works better with “speaking of” or “as for.”
Mini Quiz / Self-Check
1. Which phrase is best for a formal business email?
- A) Talking about
- B) Regarding
- C) As for
Answer: B) Regarding
2. You’re giving a casual presentation to colleagues. Which sounds most natural?
- A) Pertaining to our sales figures…
- B) When it comes to our sales figures…
- C) In the matter of our sales figures…
Answer: B) When it comes to our sales figures…
3. Which alternative is too informal for an academic paper?
- A) With respect to
- B) In relation to
- C) Speaking of
Answer: C) Speaking of
4. You’re writing a legal document. Which is most appropriate?
- A) In the matter of
- B) As for
- C) Talking about
Answer: A) In the matter of
Comparison Table: Top 10 Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Regarding | Formal, Neutral | Professional emails |
| Concerning | Formal, Serious | Reports and official matters |
| In Terms Of | Professional, Analytical | Business presentations |
| With Respect To | Polite, Structured | Formal correspondence |
| As For | Casual, Conversational | Meetings and casual talk |
| In Relation To | Formal, Analytical | Official documents |
| With Regard To | Professional, Polite | Business emails |
| In The Context Of | Analytical, Formal | Academic discussions |
| From The Perspective Of | Academic, Analytical | Essays and research |
| Speaking Of | Casual, Friendly | Everyday conversations |
FAQs
1. What is a formal alternative to “when it comes to”?
“Regarding” and “with respect to” are excellent formal alternatives. Use them in professional emails, reports, and academic writing to sound more polished.
2. Can I use “when it comes to” in a professional email?
It’s best to avoid it in professional emails. Opt for more formal alternatives like “regarding,” “in terms of,” or “with regard to”.
3. What’s the difference between “when it comes to” and “when it comes down to”?
“When it comes to” introduces a topic. “When it comes down to” emphasizes the most important point or the core issue.
4. Is “when it comes to” grammatically correct?
Yes, it’s grammatically correct and widely used. However, it’s considered informal and may not be suitable for formal contexts.
5. How can I avoid overusing “when it comes to” in my writing?
Build a vocabulary of alternatives and practice using them. Match each alternative to the right tone and context. Vary your phrasing to keep your writing fresh and engaging.
“Expanding your vocabulary isn’t about sounding smarter it’s about communicating with clarity and confidence.”
Conclusion
Learning alternatives to “when it comes to” is one of the simplest ways to elevate your English. Whether you’re writing a professional email, delivering a presentation, or having a casual conversation, the right phrase makes all the difference.
Start by practicing just a few alternatives each week. Notice how others use them in speeches, articles, and conversations. Soon, choosing the perfect phrase will feel natural and effortless.
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Daniel Murphy is a professional writer and blogger specializing in digital communication and messaging trends. As a contributor to TextsResponse.com, he creates reader-focused content designed to help people find the right words at the right time.
