on the other hand

Meaning

This expression is used to introduce a contrasting point of view, fact, or argument. It helps balance two different sides of a situation, often following a statement starting with 'on the one hand.' It is common in both spoken English and written essays to show balanced thinking.

Examples

• I'd love to go to the party; on the other hand, I really need to study for my exam tomorrow.

  I'd love to go to the party; on the other hand, I really need to study for my exam tomorrow.

• Living in the city is very convenient. On the other hand, it can be extremely noisy and expensive.

  Living in the city is very convenient. On the other hand, it can be extremely noisy and expensive.

• He wants to buy a new car, but on the other hand, he's trying to save money for a house.

  He wants to buy a new car, but on the other hand, he's trying to save money for a house.

• On the one hand, the job pays really well. On the other hand, the hours are incredibly long.

  On the one hand, the job pays really well. On the other hand, the hours are incredibly long.

• Technology makes our lives easier, but on the other hand, it can make us feel more isolated.

  Technology makes our lives easier, but on the other hand, it can make us feel more isolated.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ On other hand, we could just stay home.

  ✓ On the other hand, we could just stay home.

  Learners often forget the definite article 'the' in this fixed idiom.

• ✗ I like tea. In the other hand, my sister prefers coffee.

  ✓ I like tea. On the other hand, my sister prefers coffee.

  The preposition must be 'on', not 'in'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The hotel is beautiful. ___, it's far too expensive for our budget.

  💡 Use the phrase that introduces a contrasting point.

  Show answer

  On the other hand

• On the one hand, I want to eat healthy. ___, those donuts look amazing.

  💡 This phrase naturally pairs with 'on the one hand'.

  Show answer

  on the other hand