on the one hand
/ɒn ðə wʌn hænd/
Meaning
This expression is used to introduce the first of two contrasting points, facts, or arguments. It is almost always paired with 'on the other hand' to balance the discussion. It is highly common in academic writing, essays, and formal debates to show objective analysis.
Examples
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On the one hand, technology increases productivity; on the other hand, it can reduce face-to-face interaction.
On the one hand, technology increases productivity; on the other hand, it can reduce face-to-face interaction.
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On the one hand, the economic policy created jobs, but on the other hand, it increased inflation.
On the one hand, the economic policy created jobs, but on the other hand, it increased inflation.
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We must consider both sides: on the one hand, the costs are high, but on the other, the benefits are immense.
We must consider both sides: on the one hand, the costs are high, but on the other, the benefits are immense.
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On the one hand, the theory is elegant, yet it lacks empirical evidence.
On the one hand, the theory is elegant, yet it lacks empirical evidence.
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On the one hand, the country has vast natural resources; on the other, it suffers from poor infrastructure.
On the one hand, the country has vast natural resources; on the other, it suffers from poor infrastructure.
Common Mistakes
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✗ In the one hand, the results were positive.
✓ On the one hand, the results were positive.
The correct preposition is 'on', not 'in'. This is a fixed idiom.
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✗ On one hand, it is cheap. But on the second hand, it is bad quality.
✓ On the one hand, it is cheap. But on the other hand, it is bad quality.
The natural pairing is 'on the one hand' and 'on the other hand'. Do not use 'on the second hand'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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___, the project is expensive; on the other hand, it could save lives.
💡 Used to introduce the first of two contrasting ideas.
Show answer
On the one hand
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___, public transport is eco-friendly, but on the other hand, it can be unreliable.
💡 Starts the comparison.
Show answer
On the one hand