Sentences with ‘on the other hand’ for Better Writing
The phrase ‘on the other hand’ is a transition used to introduce a contrasting point or an alternative perspective in a sentence. It signals to your reader that you are about to present a different side of an argument, a counterpoint, or a second option. Using it correctly makes your writing more balanced, logical, and professional, especially in essays, reports, and formal emails.
Quick Answer: How to Use ‘on the other hand’
Use ‘on the other hand’ when you want to show a contrast between two ideas. It usually comes at the beginning of a sentence or clause, followed by a comma. It works best when you have already introduced one idea, and now you are presenting the opposite or a different view.
Basic structure: [First idea]. On the other hand, [contrasting idea].
Example: The new policy saves money. On the other hand, it reduces employee satisfaction.
You can also place it in the middle of a sentence: The new policy saves money, but on the other hand, it reduces employee satisfaction.
When to Use ‘on the other hand’
This phrase is most effective in formal and semi-formal writing. It is common in academic essays, business reports, opinion pieces, and professional emails. It helps you show that you have considered multiple sides of an issue, which strengthens your argument.
In casual conversation, you can use it, but it may sound slightly formal. For everyday speech, simpler alternatives like ‘but’ or ‘however’ are often more natural.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
Formal writing: ‘On the other hand’ is a standard transition. It is appropriate for essays, research papers, and formal letters.
Example: The company’s revenue increased significantly. On the other hand, operating costs also rose.
Informal writing or conversation: You can still use it, but it might feel a little stiff. In a text message or casual chat, you would more likely say ‘but’ or ‘though’.
Example (informal): I like the apartment. But the rent is too high.
Email Context
In professional emails, ‘on the other hand’ is useful for presenting alternatives or balancing pros and cons.
Example (email): We could extend the deadline by one week. On the other hand, this might delay the project launch.
It is polite and clear, showing that you are considering the other person’s perspective.
Comparison Table: ‘on the other hand’ vs. Similar Transitions
| Transition | Meaning | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| On the other hand | Introduces a contrasting point | Formal writing, balanced arguments |
| However | Shows contrast or exception | Formal and semi-formal writing |
| But | Simple contrast | Informal and formal writing |
| In contrast | Direct comparison of differences | Academic or analytical writing |
| Conversely | Opposite point of view | Formal, often in arguments |
Use this table to choose the right transition for your context. ‘On the other hand’ is best when you are presenting a balanced view of two sides.
Natural Examples of ‘on the other hand’ in Sentences
Here are real-world examples that show how the phrase works in different situations.
Academic Writing
- Some researchers argue that social media improves communication. On the other hand, others claim it reduces face-to-face interaction.
- The experiment produced consistent results. On the other hand, the sample size was too small to draw firm conclusions.
Business and Professional Writing
- Investing in new technology could increase efficiency. On the other hand, it requires a large upfront cost.
- Hiring more staff would reduce workload. On the other hand, it would increase payroll expenses.
Everyday Situations
- I enjoy living in the city because of the opportunities. On the other hand, I miss the quiet of the countryside.
- Studying abroad is an exciting experience. On the other hand, it can be lonely at first.
Common Mistakes with ‘on the other hand’
Even advanced learners sometimes misuse this phrase. Here are the most frequent errors and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Using it without a first idea
‘On the other hand’ must follow a previous point. You cannot start a discussion with it.
Incorrect: On the other hand, the weather is nice today.
Correct: The forecast predicts rain. On the other hand, the weather is nice today.
Mistake 2: Confusing it with ‘on the one hand’
These two phrases are often used together. ‘On the one hand’ introduces the first point, and ‘on the other hand’ introduces the contrasting point. If you use ‘on the other hand’ alone, it is fine, but do not mix them incorrectly.
Incorrect: On the one hand, the plan is cheap. On the other hand, it is also efficient. (This is not a contrast.)
Correct: On the one hand, the plan is cheap. On the other hand, it is not very reliable.
Mistake 3: Overusing it in a single paragraph
Using ‘on the other hand’ too often makes your writing repetitive. Use it once or twice in a longer piece, and vary your transitions.
Repetitive: The car is fast. On the other hand, it is expensive. On the other hand, it has good safety features.
Better: The car is fast. On the other hand, it is expensive. However, it has good safety features.
Better Alternatives to ‘on the other hand’
Sometimes you need a different phrase to avoid repetition or to match the tone of your writing. Here are strong alternatives.
- However – Use for a simple contrast. Example: The plan is cheap. However, it is not reliable.
- In contrast – Use for direct comparison. Example: The first method is slow. In contrast, the second method is fast.
- Conversely – Use for an opposite viewpoint. Example: Some people prefer summer. Conversely, others prefer winter.
- That said – Use to acknowledge a point before making a counterpoint. Example: The movie has great reviews. That said, I found it boring.
- Nevertheless – Use to show that a point remains true despite something. Example: The task was difficult. Nevertheless, we completed it.
Choose the alternative that best fits your sentence. For most academic and professional writing, ‘however’ is a safe and effective choice.
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Complete each sentence with the correct phrase: ‘on the other hand’, ‘however’, or ‘in contrast’. Answers are below.
- Living in a big city offers many job opportunities. __________, the cost of living is much higher.
- The first experiment failed. __________, the second one succeeded.
- Some people enjoy working from home. __________, others prefer the office environment.
- The software is easy to use. __________, it lacks advanced features.
Answers
- On the other hand
- In contrast
- On the other hand
- However
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start a sentence with ‘on the other hand’?
Yes, you can. It is common to start a sentence with ‘on the other hand’ when you are introducing a contrasting point. Just make sure you have already presented the first idea in a previous sentence.
Is ‘on the other hand’ formal or informal?
It is neutral but leans toward formal. It is very common in academic and professional writing. In casual conversation, people often use ‘but’ or ‘though’ instead.
Do I always need to use ‘on the one hand’ first?
No. You can use ‘on the other hand’ alone. The phrase ‘on the one hand’ is optional and is only used when you want to explicitly introduce the first point in a pair.
What is the difference between ‘on the other hand’ and ‘however’?
Both show contrast, but ‘on the other hand’ is more specific to presenting an alternative side or option. ‘However’ is more general and can be used for any kind of contrast or exception.
For more help with writing transitions, explore our Writing Sentence Examples section. You can also check Common Usage Mistakes for other tricky phrases. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.
