Common Mistakes When Using ‘on the other hand’ in a Sentence
The most common mistake when using “on the other hand” is treating it as a simple synonym for “but” or “however.” In fact, this phrase has a very specific job: it introduces a contrasting point that balances or opposes the previous idea, often in a structured comparison. Many learners use it to add any random opposite thought, which can confuse the reader. To use it correctly, you need two clear, parallel ideas that are being weighed against each other, not just any two different statements.
Quick Answer: How to Use ‘on the other hand’ Correctly
Use “on the other hand” to present a contrasting viewpoint or a different side of an argument. It works best when you have already introduced one perspective, and you now want to show the other side. The phrase signals a balanced comparison, not just a simple contradiction. For example: “Living in the city offers many job opportunities. On the other hand, the cost of living is much higher.” Notice that both sentences are about the same topic (living in the city), and they present two different aspects of it.
Understanding the Core Function of ‘on the other hand’
This phrase is a discourse marker, which means it helps organize your ideas and guide the reader through your argument. Its primary function is to introduce a contrasting point that is part of a larger, balanced discussion. It is not a casual connector like “but” and is rarely used in informal conversation. It is most at home in academic writing, formal essays, business reports, and structured arguments.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
“On the other hand” is generally formal or neutral in tone. In casual conversation, native speakers often shorten it to “on the other hand” but still use it sparingly. A more natural informal alternative might be “but then again” or “though.” For example:
- Formal: “The proposal reduces costs. On the other hand, it may lower employee morale.”
- Informal: “I want to go to the party. But then again, I have an early meeting tomorrow.”
Email and Conversation Context
In professional emails, “on the other hand” is useful for presenting alternatives or weighing options. In conversation, it can sound a bit stiff if overused. Use it when you want to show careful consideration, not just a quick disagreement.
Comparison Table: ‘on the other hand’ vs. Similar Phrases
| Phrase | Core Meaning | Typical Context | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| On the other hand | Introduces a contrasting point in a balanced comparison | Formal writing, essays, structured arguments | “The plan is expensive. On the other hand, it is very effective.” |
| However | Introduces a contrast or limitation; can be more abrupt | Formal and semi-formal writing | “The plan is expensive. However, it is very effective.” |
| But | Simple contrast or contradiction | Informal and formal writing | “The plan is expensive but effective.” |
| In contrast | Highlights direct differences between two things | Academic writing, comparisons | “In contrast to the first plan, this one is cheaper.” |
| Conversely | Shows an opposite or reversed relationship | Formal, logical arguments | “Higher prices reduce demand. Conversely, lower prices increase it.” |
Natural Examples of ‘on the other hand’ in Use
Here are examples that show the phrase working correctly in different contexts. Notice how each example has a clear first point and a second, contrasting point on the same topic.
Academic Writing
- “The experimental group showed significant improvement. On the other hand, the control group’s results remained unchanged.”
- “Some researchers argue that social media increases connectivity. On the other hand, others claim it reduces face-to-face interaction.”
Business and Professional
- “Investing in new software will improve efficiency. On the other hand, it requires a substantial upfront cost.”
- “Hiring more staff could reduce overtime. On the other hand, it would increase our payroll expenses.”
Everyday Decision-Making
- “Renting an apartment gives you flexibility. On the other hand, buying a home builds equity over time.”
- “Studying abroad is a great cultural experience. On the other hand, it can be very expensive.”
Common Mistakes When Using ‘on the other hand’
Even advanced learners make these errors. Here are the most frequent ones, with corrections.
Mistake 1: Using it without a clear first point
Incorrect: “I like coffee. On the other hand, I don’t like tea.”
Why it’s wrong: The first point (“I like coffee”) is not a complete perspective that needs balancing. The second point is just a simple opposite. A better structure would be: “Coffee gives me energy in the morning. On the other hand, it can make me jittery.”
Mistake 2: Using it for unrelated contrasts
Incorrect: “The weather is nice today. On the other hand, I need to finish my homework.”
Why it’s wrong: The two ideas are not connected by a common topic. The phrase requires both points to be about the same subject. Corrected: “Going to the beach sounds fun. On the other hand, I need to finish my homework.”
Mistake 3: Overusing it in a single paragraph
Incorrect: “The new policy saves money. On the other hand, it reduces flexibility. On the other hand, it also improves accountability.”
Why it’s wrong: You can only have two sides of an argument. Using it more than once in a short space confuses the reader. Use “however” or “in addition” for additional points.
Mistake 4: Using it as a simple synonym for ‘but’
Incorrect: “I wanted to go, on the other hand I was tired.”
Why it’s wrong: This is too informal and abrupt. “But” or “however” would be more natural. “On the other hand” needs a more deliberate, balanced structure.
When to Use ‘on the other hand’ (and When Not To)
Best Situations
- In essays where you present both sides of an argument.
- In business reports comparing options.
- In formal discussions where you want to show careful consideration.
- When you have two clear, parallel points about the same topic.
Avoid Using It
- In casual conversation (use “but then again” or “though”).
- When you only have one point to make.
- When the contrast is very simple (use “but” or “however”).
- More than once in a short paragraph.
Better Alternatives to ‘on the other hand’
Depending on your context, these alternatives can be more precise or natural.
- However: Best for a simple, direct contrast. “The plan is risky. However, the potential reward is high.”
- In contrast: Best for highlighting direct differences. “The first proposal is expensive. In contrast, the second is very affordable.”
- Conversely: Best for showing a logical opposite. “Increased taxes reduce consumer spending. Conversely, tax cuts can stimulate the economy.”
- But then again: Best for informal, conversational use. “I’d love to travel. But then again, I have a lot of work.”
- That said: Best for acknowledging a previous point before introducing a new one. “The data is clear. That said, we should consider the limitations.”
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Choose the best way to complete each sentence. Answers are below.
-
“Working from home offers more flexibility. ______, it can make it harder to separate work from personal life.”
A) On the other hand
B) But then again
C) In contrast
D) All of the above are correct -
“I wanted to buy the car. ______, I decided to save my money instead.”
A) On the other hand
B) However
C) Conversely
D) In contrast -
“The first experiment failed. ______, the second one succeeded.”
A) On the other hand
B) But then again
C) In contrast
D) That said -
“The hotel is expensive. ______, it offers excellent service and a great location.”
A) On the other hand
B) However
C) Conversely
D) Both A and B are correct
Answers
- D) All of the above are correct – Each option works in this context, though “on the other hand” is the most formal and balanced.
- B) However – This is a simple contrast, not a balanced comparison. “On the other hand” would sound too formal and structured here.
- C) In contrast – This highlights the direct difference between two results. “On the other hand” could work, but “in contrast” is more precise.
- D) Both A and B are correct – “On the other hand” works for a balanced comparison, and “however” works for a simple contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I start a sentence with ‘on the other hand’?
Yes, you can. It is common and correct to start a sentence with “on the other hand” when it follows a previous sentence that introduced the first point. For example: “The first option is cheaper. On the other hand, the second option is more reliable.”
2. Do I always need ‘on the one hand’ before ‘on the other hand’?
No. While “on the one hand… on the other hand” is a common paired structure, you can use “on the other hand” alone if the first point is clear from context. For example: “Living in the city is exciting. On the other hand, it can be stressful.” The first point is implied.
3. Is ‘on the other hand’ formal or informal?
It is generally considered formal or neutral. It is very common in academic writing, business reports, and structured arguments. In casual conversation, native speakers often prefer shorter alternatives like “but then again” or “though.”
4. What is the difference between ‘on the other hand’ and ‘however’?
“On the other hand” introduces a balanced, contrasting point that is part of a larger comparison. “However” is more flexible and can introduce any kind of contrast or limitation, even a simple one. “However” is also more common in everyday writing.
Final Tips for Using ‘on the other hand’
To use this phrase correctly, always ask yourself: Do I have two clear, parallel points about the same topic? If yes, “on the other hand” is a great choice. If you are just adding a simple contrast or a random opposite idea, choose “however” or “but” instead. Practice by writing a few balanced comparisons about topics you are studying, and check that each pair of sentences is about the same subject. With careful use, this phrase will make your academic and professional writing much more precise and persuasive.
For more help with common writing errors, explore our Common Usage Mistakes section. You can also review Writing Sentence Examples for more structured practice. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us for further assistance.
