"On the other hand…"

Meaning: a phrase that introduces something that is different from the first thing that was said

Similar Expressions

• The location is great. On the other hand, it is expensive.
• The location is great, but it is expensive.
• The location is great. However, it is expensive.

When do we use it?

We use this phrase when comparing the pros and cons of something. It does not matter where we put the pros and cons.

We often use this phrase after the phrase "On the one hand…".

• On the one hand, I want to hire her because she is my friend's daughter and she is very nice. On the other hand, she doesn't have the necessary skills.
• On the one hand, this job is boring and doesn't challenge me. On the other hand, it is stable and has great benefits.

We can also use this when giving a different view or perspective.

A) Motorcycles are dangerous.
B) On the other hand, they are fun.

How do we use it?

We use this phrase at the beginning of a sentence. Put a comma after this phrase when writing.

• This jacket is really expensive. On the other hand, it looks so cool.

Many times, other words like "but" and "though" are used before this phrase.

• Thailand has a lot of fun things to do. But, on the other hand, it is so hot there in the summer.
• She doesn't have a lot of experience in this field. Though, on the other hand, she is a hard worker and she is very ambitious.

The more English idioms and expressions that you know, the easier it will be for you to have conversation in English. If you study these free English lessons about commonly used English expressions and idioms consistently, then over time you will build a solid English vocabulary that will help you speak English fluently.