on the other hand
from another perspective; in contrast
In Spanish
from another perspective; in contrast
Examples
- On the other hand, working from home has its drawbacks.
- The weather is nice today, but on the other hand, it might rain tomorrow.
- He loves living in the city; on the other hand, he misses the quiet of the countryside.
When it's used
Used to introduce a contrast or a different perspective. It's a common expression in both spoken and written English and is used in both formal and informal contexts.
The common mistake
A common mistake is saying 'in the other hand'. In English, it is always 'on the other hand'. It's also important to remember that this idiom is not used to introduce a new, unrelated idea; it must always contrast with what has been said before.
Related idioms
FROM WHAT YOU READ TO WHAT YOU SAY
Recognising it isn't the same as using it
Reading an idiom and understanding it is step one. Dropping it into a conversation, at the right moment, without stopping to think, is another — and that only comes from speaking.
Practise speaking→