How to say “on the other hand” like a native speaker
Introduce a contrasting consideration. It is useful when weighing advantages and disadvantages rather than simply changing the subject.
All phrases · Workplace
Hear “on the other hand” in real speech
Clip 1 · Robert Waldinger
What actually makes a good life, according to 85 years of data | Robert Waldinger · 15:08
About this video
Robert Waldinger reflects on why he became interested in psychiatry and studying people's lives. He discusses what long-term research suggests about relationships and invites listeners to consider which connections they would like more of.
In context
Chronic resentment, often withdrawal, and then active arguing.On the other hand, couples argue all the time without having these detrimental effects.
What we've found from our research is that couples can argue often and quite vocally,
Clip 2 · Dan Gilbert
Why we make bad decisions | Dan Gilbert · 9:17
About this video
Dan Gilbert discusses why people make poor decisions despite having ways to compare possible outcomes. He introduces Daniel Bernoulli's approach and uses everyday examples to explore judgement.
In context
Suddenly, 25 dollars for a Big Mac might be a good deal.On the other hand, if you're visiting an underdeveloped country, and 25 dollars buys you a gourmet meal, it's exorbitant for a Big Mac.
Why were you all sure that the answer to the question was no, before I'd even told you anything about the context?
Clip 3 · Speak English With Vanessa
Order PIZZA in English: Daily Life English Lesson · 12:45
About this video
Vanessa and her husband Dan visit an American pizza restaurant. She explains ordering language and restaurant customs, then discusses dining experiences and expectations about prices.
In context
So, uh I hope that you enjoy this video.Me, on the other hand, I have a very uh high embarrassment threshold.
I don't really care.
When to use “on the other hand”
- Comparing flats: “This one is cheaper. On the other hand, it's much farther from work.”
- Weighing a job offer: “The hours are long. On the other hand, the work sounds interesting.”
Common learner mistake
Include both “the” and “other”: “on the other hand”, not “on other hand”.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “on the other hand”
Link “the” into the opening vowel of “other”. “Hand” often carries the contrast, with the smaller words kept light.
Related phrases
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A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
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