discourse marker / phrase · neutral
on the other hand
UK/ɒn ði ˈʌðə(r) hænd/US/ɑn ði ˈʌðər hænd/on the oth·ER HAND
Used to introduce a contrasting point of view or another side of an argument.
Examples
“Online classes are flexible. On the other hand, they can reduce interaction between students.”
“He is experienced; on the other hand, he can be quite inflexible.”
“On the other hand, if we delay the project, costs may increase.”
Band 8 sentence
“Working from home increases flexibility and reduces commuting time; on the other hand, it can blur the boundary between work and personal life.”
Collocations
- On the other hand, + clause
- On the other hand + comma
Word family
Common mistakes
On other hand, the plan looks good.→On the other hand, the plan looks good.
On the other hand he said yes.→On the other hand, he said yes.
Say it for a higher band
5but→6however→7+on the other hand
Synonyms
in contrast
conversely
Easily confused
in contrast
“House prices rose this year; in contrast, rents remained stable.”
on the one hand
“On the one hand, the job pays well. On the other hand, it's boring.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Contrast
Learn it with its set