20 Other Ways to Say ‘Etc.’ (With Examples)

Words shape how we connect with others, and the little details – like how other ways to say “etc.” – can add warmth and depth to our conversations. Instead of using “etc.” in every situation, consider alternatives that sound more thoughtful and personal.

Whether you’re writing an email, sending a message, or having a heartfelt conversation, these synonyms will help you express yourself with care and clarity.

What Does “Etc.” Mean?

“Etc.” is short for the Latin phrase et cetera, meaning “and other similar things” or “and so on.” It’s often used to indicate that a list continues beyond what’s mentioned. While common in casual writing, finding alternative ways to express it can make your communication feel more engaging and considerate.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Etc.”?

Using “etc.” is generally acceptable in professional and casual settings, but it depends on the context. In formal writing, it can sometimes seem vague or imprecise. Instead, specifying what you mean or choosing a more tailored phrase can enhance clarity and professionalism. In personal communication, a warmer alternative can make messages feel more inviting.

Pros and Cons of Using “Etc.”

Pros:

Convenient and universally understood.
Saves space when listing similar items.
Works well in casual communication.

Cons:

Can feel impersonal or vague.
May not be suitable for formal writing.
Overuse can weaken clarity.

Synonyms For “Etc.”

And So On
And the Like
And Other Similar Things
And Everything Else
And So Forth
And Whatnot
You Get the Idea
Among Others
And More
And Others
And All That
And What Have You
And The Rest
And The Usual Stuff
And So Many More
And a Bunch of Other Things
And Various Others
Plus Many More
And More of the Same
And All the Rest

1. And So On

This phrase is a natural, easygoing alternative that keeps the sentence flowing smoothly.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Preparing for the Team Presentation

Hi Emily,

Please ensure the slides cover our main points – customer feedback, recent sales data, market trends, and so on. Let me know if you need any details.

Thanks,
James

Best Use:

Professional and casual writing.

Additional Note:

Works well in spoken conversations, too.

2. And the Like

A softer, slightly more formal alternative to “etc.”

Scenario Example:

Subject: Product Packaging Options

Hi Chris,

We’re considering eco-friendly materials, reusable packaging, compostable options, and the like. Let’s discuss the best approach.

Best,
Lisa

Best Use:

Professional emails, and formal reports.

Additional Note:

Suggest a broader but similar category.

3. And Other Similar Things

A direct and explanatory phrase that enhances clarity.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Office Supply Request

Hi Mark,

We need printer paper, pens, sticky notes, and other similar things for the office. Could you place an order this week?

Thanks,
Sarah

Best Use:

When clarity is important.

Additional Note:

A good replacement for formal writing.

4. And Everything Else

A friendly, all-encompassing phrase that makes writing feel warm and inclusive.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Event Planning To-Do List

Hi Alex,

We need to confirm the caterer, finalize the guest list, send invitations, and everything else before Friday. Let’s touch base soon!

Best,
Mia

Best Use:

Conversational emails, and messages.

Additional Note:

Less formal, better for casual settings.

5. And So Forth

A polished, professional-sounding alternative.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Client Report Updates

Hi Tom,

The report should cover sales trends, key performance indicators, competitor analysis, and so forth. Let me know if you need help.

Regards,
Laura

Best Use:

Business and academic writing.

Additional Note:

Adds sophistication without being too complex.

6. And Whatnot

A relaxed, conversational alternative, great for informal settings.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Weekend Plans

Hey Jordan,

Let’s plan something fun – maybe a movie, dinner, and whatnot. Let me know what works!

Cheers,
Sam

Best Use:

Friendly, casual messages.

Additional Note:

Too informal for professional settings.

7. You Get the Idea

A casual and conversational alternative that keeps things engaging.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Office Cleanup Checklist

Hey Team,

Please remember to wipe down desks, organize supplies, take out the trash, you get the idea. Let’s keep our space tidy!

Thanks,
Ben

Best Use:

Friendly, informal settings.

Additional Note:

Too relaxed for professional documents.

8. Among Others

A refined alternative that maintains professionalism while hinting at more examples.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Key Competitors Analysis

Hi Jane,

Our main competitors include XYZ Corp, and ABC Ltd, among others. Let’s prepare a comparison report.

Best,
Mark

Best Use:

Business reports and presentations.

Additional Note:

Ideal when discussing multiple people or groups.

9. And More

A simple yet effective alternative for lists, often seen in marketing and product descriptions.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Upcoming Event Highlights

Hi Team,

Expect great speakers, networking opportunities, exciting workshops, and more at this year’s summit. Don’t miss it!

Regards,
Sarah

Best Use:

Promotions and event descriptions.

Additional Note:

Works well for emphasizing additional items.

10. And Others

A clear and professional way to acknowledge additional items or people.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Project Contributors

Hi Everyone,

Special thanks to Emily, James, David, and others who worked hard on this launch! Your efforts are truly appreciated.

Best,
Daniel

Best Use:

Acknowledging people in formal settings.

Additional Note:

Suitable for professional and academic writing.

11. And All That

A casual, friendly alternative that adds personality to a sentence.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Weekend Plans

Hey Mia,

Let’s go for coffee, check out some shops, and all that. Sound good?

Cheers,
Alex

Best Use:

Informal, conversational writing.

Additional Note:

Not ideal for professional communication.

12. And What Have You

A slightly old-fashioned but warm way to imply “and similar things.”

Scenario Example:

Subject: Home Renovation Ideas

Hi Dad,

I’m thinking of repainting, adding new shelves, upgrading the lights, and what have you. What do you think?

Love,
Emma

Best Use:

Conversational emails and storytelling.

Additional Note:

Works well in informal or nostalgic contexts.

13. And The Rest

A concise alternative that leaves room for more details.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Finalizing Travel Plans

Hi Jake,

We’ve booked the flights, reserved the hotel, and planned our itinerary, and the rest is coming together nicely!

Cheers,
Lily

Best Use:

Casual messages.

Additional Note:

Keeps the tone light and engaging.

14. And The Usual Stuff

A fun, informal way to refer to routine items.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Grocery List

Hey Mom,

I picked up bread, milk, eggs, and the usual stuff. Let me know if you need anything else!

Love,
Jake

Best Use:

Everyday Conversations.

Additional Note:

Too informal for work-related emails.

15. And So Many More

An enthusiastic alternative to highlight variety.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Team Appreciation

Hi Team,

Thanks to our designers, marketers, writers, and so many more who contributed to this project’s success!

Best,
Olivia

Best Use:

Motivational or appreciation messages.

Additional Note:

Best in contexts that emphasize abundance.

16. And a Bunch of Other Things

A relaxed phrase that works well in casual settings.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Party Prep

Hey Sam,

We’ve got snacks, drinks, decorations, and a bunch of other things ready. Can’t wait to see you!

Cheers,
Amy

Best Use:

Informal, friendly conversations.

Additional Note:

Not suitable for professional use.

17. And Various Others

A polished, academic-friendly alternative.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Research Sources

Hi Professor,

I reviewed studies by Dr. Smith, Dr. Lopez, Dr. Patel, and various others on the topic. I’ll send you my notes soon.

Best,
Liam

Best Use:

Academic writing.

Additional Note:

Works well in research papers.

18. Plus Many More

A lively phrase that emphasizes abundance.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Upcoming Concert Lineup

Hi Everyone,

Expect performances by The Blue Waves, Sound Theory, Electric Pulse, plus many more at this year’s festival!

Cheers,
Anna

Best Use:

Marketing, event promotions.

Additional Note:

Best when listing exciting options.

19. And More of the Same

A straightforward way to indicate that additional similar items exist.

Scenario Example:

Subject: Quarterly Sales Report

Hi David,

The report covers regional performance, customer feedback, revenue growth, and more of the same across different departments. Let me know if you need any revisions.

Best,
Lisa

Best Use:

Business communication, reports, and summaries.

Additional Note:

Best when discussing repetitive patterns or data.