10 Synonyms for “Please Note”

When writing, especially in a professional setting, it’s crucial to grab your reader’s attention and highlight important details. The phrase “please note” is a common tool for this, but using the same phrase over and over can become repetitive and dull.

This article provides ten alternatives to spice up your messages and ensure your key points stand out. Each alternative is explained with examples to show how and when to use them effectively.

Is It Professional to Say “Please Note”?

The phrase “please note” is widely regarded as professional, formal, and polite. It’s a versatile expression that can be used in a variety of communication forms to draw the recipient’s attention to a particular detail or point. Its usage is common in situations where the sender needs to highlight information that is crucial, or that could be easily overlooked.

For example, in a professional setting, using “please note” is effective for emphasizing deadlines, changes to procedures, or any specific details that need to be underlined for their importance. This makes it an essential tool in written communications such as emails, memos, and reports.

Here is an example of how it might be used in an email:

Dear Emily,

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to update you on the schedule for the upcoming project meetings.

Please note, the meeting originally scheduled for Thursday has now been moved to Friday at 10 a.m. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your flexibility.

Should you have any questions or need further clarification, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Best regards,
Michael

Pros:

• It is simple and to the point, making your message clear.
• Makes important information stand out.
• Conveys a sense of politeness and professionalism.

Cons:

• Could be overused, potentially diminishing its effect.
• Some recipients might perceive it as unnecessary if the message is already clear.

While “please note” is universally accepted and understood, there could be reasons why someone might seek an alternative phrase. This could be due to a desire to vary language use in their communications, to avoid repetition, or perhaps to tailor the tone more closely to a specific audience. In these situations, using synonyms or alternatives can be helpful. Being aware of various ways to express the same intention allows for more dynamic and engaging communication.

10 Other Ways to Say “Please Note”

When looking to diversify your language, here are ten alternatives to “please note” that maintain the original’s intent but offer variety in tone and formality.

1. Kindly note

This phrase carries a tone that is both polite and formal, making it a close synonym to “please note.” It’s slightly softer due to the word “kindly,” which adds a touch of warmth to the message. This choice is particularly effective in written communications where maintaining a friendly tone is as important as emphasizing the information.

It’s better suited for emails or memos where you want to be assertive yet gentle. Use this when your intent is to inform without giving an order, such as in advisory or reminder messages.

Dear Colin,

I hope you're doing well. As we approach the end of the fiscal year, kindly note that all reports need to be submitted by next Friday.

Best wishes,
Olivia

2. It’s important to remember

This alternative is less formal and adds emphasis on the importance of the information. It brings the reader’s attention directly to the significance of the following statement. This phrase suits contexts where you need to stress the critical nature of the information, helping to ensure it is not overlooked.

When conveying instructions or details that must not be forgotten, this phrase is particularly useful. It nudges the reader to pay closer attention and prioritize the information provided.

Hello Team,

As we move into the new marketing strategy, it's important to remember that all social media posts need approval from the communications department.

Regards,
Mia

3. For your information (FYI)

This acronym is widely recognized and used for both informal and formal written communications. It implies that the information to follow is supplementary or additional. “FYI” is less about commanding attention and more about offering additional data for consideration.

When the purpose of your message is to inform rather than instruct, “FYI” can be the right choice. It’s particularly good for updates or sharing articles, documents, and other resources that may be of interest.

Dear All,

For your information (FYI), the latest industry report has been uploaded to the shared drive.

Best,
Jeremy

4. Please be aware

This phrase is formal and direct, focusing on raising awareness or alerting the recipient to something important. It is especially suited for messages that contain precautions or warnings.

When you need the recipient to be on alert or cautious about specific details, this phrasing effectively sets the tone. This could be used for policy changes, procedural updates, or any context where understanding the information is crucial for compliance or safety.

Dear Parents,

Please be aware that school start times will change, effective next month.

Sincerely,
Principal Johnson

5. Take note

The alternative “take note” is straightforward and informal. It is best used when you want to grab the recipient’s attention quickly and efficiently. While less polite than “please note,” it’s effective in digital communications where brevity is valued.

This alternative is preferable in situations where speed and clarity are paramount, such as in brief messages or notices where longer, more courteous phrasings might slow down understanding.

Team,

Take note: Meeting at 3 PM has been moved to Conference Room B.

See you there,
Alex

6. Be advised

“Be advised” is a formal phrase that is typically used in contexts where authority is being exercised. It’s somewhat impersonal and is often used to precede guidelines, warnings, or significant announcements.

This phrase is better suited for environments where authority needs to be emphasized, like in legal or critical safety communications. When delivering messages that require immediate and careful attention, “be advised” sets a serious tone.

Attention all staff,

Be advised: The main entrance will be closed tomorrow for maintenance. Please use the side entrance.

Regards,
Facilities Management

7. Attention

“Attention” is very direct and formal, commonly used to prelude announcements. It demands immediate focus from the reader and is best used in notices or signs where brevity and impact are key.

This alternative is particularly effective for messages that need to be read and understood quickly, such as safety warnings or urgent announcements. It cuts through the noise to ensure the following information is seen as important.

All Employees,

Attention: Fire drill scheduled for this Thursday at 2 PM. Please be prepared to follow all safety protocols.

Management

8. Please consider

“Please consider” suggests a more polite and formal tone but with a softer approach. It implies that the reader has a choice in how to respond or act based on the information given. This phrase is good for suggestions or recommendations where there is some flexibility.

When the goal is to persuade or encourage consideration of a particular point, idea, or action without mandating it, “please consider” is an excellent choice. It’s particularly useful in messages aiming to guide rather than direct.

Dear Faculty,

Please consider extending office hours during finals week to accommodate student schedules.

Warm regards,
Dean Smith

9. It’s worth noting

This phrase is less formal and more conversational, making it suitable for messages that aim to add value or insight rather than command action. “It’s worth noting” lays the groundwork for the reader to understand that the following information is valuable and possibly enhances understanding of a topic or situation.

Use this when you want to draw attention to information that, while not urgent, could be beneficial or enlightening to the recipient. This is ideal for supplementary details in informative pieces or emails.

Colleagues,

It's worth noting that the recent changes to the tax laws could affect many of our clients’ end-of-year filings.

Best,
Liam

10. Bear in mind

The phrase “bear in mind” is both informal and polite. It suggests that the information to follow is important for consideration but does so in a way that is less forceful. It serves as a gentle reminder.

This alternative is ideal for messages where you wish to remind the recipient of something important without being too direct or authoritative. It’s particularly effective in personal communications, advisory notes, or when providing advice.

Hi Team,

As you finalize your reports, bear in mind that the client is particularly interested in seeing quarterly growth figures.

Thanks,
Rachel

Final Thoughts

Variety in language not only keeps our writing fresh but also makes it more engaging for the reader. By exploring different ways to say “please note,” we open up new possibilities for crafting messages that are both clear and compelling.

Remember, the goal is to convey important information in a way that resonates with your audience. The ten alternatives we’ve discussed each have their place, depending on the tone, formality, and context of your message. So next time you’re about to type “please note,” consider if one of these synonyms could offer a better fit. This small change could make a big difference in how your message is received.