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On the other hand vs On the contrary
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Many English learners confuse on the other hand and on the contrary or use them interchangeably. However, their meanings and uses are distinct. On the contrary is used to contradict and indicate that something mentioned before is not true, and on the other hand is used to introduce a new idea or point of view to a discussion.
On the other hand
On the other hand is similar in meaning to ‘however’. We use it to present a contrasting argument or idea to something previously mentioned. Unlike on the contrary, it does not state the opposite of the previous statement but simply introduces another perspective or point of view..
On the other hand usually appears at the beginning of a second clause or sentence and is followed by a coma. It can also appear between commas in the middle of a sentence.
- I don’t find working out boring. On the other hand, it’s hard to stay motivated.
- My sisters supported my decision. My brother, on the other hand, thought I was making a mistake.
On the contrary
We use on the contrary to contradict a previous statement or to state that something is the opposite of something just mentioned. For this reason, on the contrary is often used after a negative statement in a previous clause.
On the contrary normally goes at the start of a sentence or clause and is usually followed by a comma.
- I don’t find working out boring. On the contrary, it’s a lot of fun!
- ‘I suppose the children found the play a bit dull?’ ‘On the contrary, they loved it.’
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