The phrase “including but not limited to” is widely used in legal, academic, and business contexts to introduce a list while clarifying that the items mentioned are not exhaustive. However, in everyday writing and conversation, this phrase can sometimes sound overly formal or redundant.
If you’re looking for alternative ways to express the same idea in different tones—whether professional, casual, or legal—this guide will help you choose the best synonym based on context.
Why Use an Alternative?
While “including but not limited to” is clear and precise, there are situations where another phrase might be preferable. Some reasons to opt for a synonym include:
- Enhancing readability – Simpler alternatives can make your writing more accessible.
- Maintaining a natural tone – In casual or creative writing, a different phrase might sound more engaging.
- Avoiding redundancy – The phrase can be unnecessarily wordy in some contexts.
- Adjusting formality – Some alternatives might better fit a professional email, legal document, or friendly conversation.
Below, we’ll explore over ten synonyms for “including but not limited to,” categorized by their level of formality.
Formal Alternatives
These alternatives work well in professional, legal, and academic writing.
1. “Such as”
This is a straightforward and professional way to introduce examples while implying that there are more.
✅ Example: The company offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
🔹 Best for: Business documents, formal writing, and academic papers.
2. “Among Others”
This phrase adds subtlety while indicating that the list is not exhaustive.
✅ Example: The museum features artwork from Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet, among others.
🔹 Best for: Professional writing, reports, and descriptions.
3. “Including Without Limitation”
A legal-sounding phrase often used in contracts or policies.
✅ Example: The agreement covers damages including without limitation loss of income and medical expenses.
🔹 Best for: Legal documents and technical contracts.
4. “For Example, But Not Exclusively”
A precise phrase that clarifies that other options exist.
✅ Example: Our platform supports multiple formats, for example, but not exclusively, PDF, DOCX, and TXT.
🔹 Best for: Contracts, legal writing, and academic discussions.
Neutral & Versatile Alternatives
These phrases work well in both professional and casual settings.
5. “For Example”
One of the most commonly used phrases to introduce examples in an easy-to-read manner.
✅ Example: The recipe calls for ingredients for example tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
🔹 Best for: Emails, reports, and presentations.
6. “As Well As”
A versatile alternative that suggests additional items without limiting the list.
✅ Example: The software supports Mac and Windows, as well as Linux.
🔹 Best for: General writing, conversations, and presentations.
7. “Among Many Others”
This phrase keeps the tone open-ended while emphasizing variety.
✅ Example: The festival features music from jazz, rock, and pop, among many others.
🔹 Best for: Advertising, event descriptions, and content writing.
8. “Some of Which Include”
A slightly more detailed phrase that highlights specific examples.
✅ Example: We offer multiple membership plans, some of which include discounts, priority booking, and free consultations.
🔹 Best for: Marketing, customer service, and business writing.
Casual & Conversational Alternatives
These alternatives work best in informal writing, texting, or relaxed conversations.
9. “Like”
A simple and natural way to introduce examples in everyday speech and informal writing.
✅ Example: You should try Mediterranean dishes like hummus, falafel, and tabbouleh.
🔹 Best for: Casual conversations, texting, and social media.
10. “And So On”
This phrase suggests continuation without being overly formal.
✅ Example: I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, and so on.
🔹 Best for: Friendly conversations, social media, and lighthearted writing.
11. “Etc.”
A quick and easy abbreviation to indicate more examples exist.
✅ Example: The store sells notebooks, pens, folders, etc.
🔹 Best for: Notes, lists, and casual writing.
Choosing the Right Alternative
When deciding which synonym to use, consider the following:
✅ Context – Is it a formal document, a professional email, or a casual message?
✅ Clarity – Does the alternative clearly communicate that the list is not exhaustive?
✅ Tone – Does it match the level of formality required?
11 User-Friendly Texting Examples
Here are some practical ways to use these synonyms in everyday texts and messages:
- Hey, bring some snacks like chips, cookies, and popcorn!
- We have different flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
- You should check out European cities like Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam.
- Our gym offers amenities like a sauna, swimming pool, and yoga classes, among others.
- I love tropical fruits, for example, mangoes, pineapples, and papayas.
- Let’s listen to music genres such as jazz, rock, and hip-hop.
- We can visit places like museums, parks, and beaches, etc.
- The package includes extras such as free delivery, gift wrapping, and discounts.
- Her favorite hobbies are painting, reading, and dancing, among many others.
- We stock fresh produce like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce, and so on.
- The conference will cover topics such as leadership, marketing, and innovation.
