discourse marker (paired) · formal
on the one hand
UK/ɒn ðə wʌn hænd/US/ɑːn ðə wʌn hænd/on·the·one·HAND
used to present one side of an argument, usually followed by 'on the other hand' to present the opposite side
Examples
“On the one hand, online learning is flexible; on the other hand, it can reduce social interaction.”
“On the one hand, the job offers high pay; on the other hand, the hours are long.”
“On the one hand, the new law protects consumers; on the other hand, it raises costs for small businesses.”
Band 8 sentence
“On the one hand, renewable energy reduces emissions; on the other hand, the initial infrastructure costs are substantial.”
Collocations
- On the one hand, + clause ... on the other hand, + clause
- used to compare pros and cons
Word family
Common mistakes
On one hand, studying abroad is expensive.→On the one hand, studying abroad is expensive.
On the one hand the job is good.→On the one hand, the job is good.
Say it for a higher band
5but→6on one hand→7+on the one hand
Synonyms
from one perspective
Easily confused
from one perspective
“From one perspective, the policy benefits the economy.”
on the other hand
“On the other hand, stricter rules could harm small businesses.”
Related words
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In Contrast
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