Sometimes when we speak or write in English, we need to show contrast or express a different opinion. The phrase “on the other hand” is very common for this purpose. But using it too often can make your writing sound repetitive. In this article, you will learn 29 useful synonyms for “on the other hand” with easy meanings and clear examples to help you use them naturally in English speaking and writing.
What Does “On the Other Hand” Mean?
The phrase “on the other hand” is used to show contrast between two ideas. It helps to present an opposite view, different reason, or another side of a topic.
Example:
I love living in the city. On the other hand, it’s very expensive.
Synonyms for On the Other Hand
Here are some useful alternatives you can use instead of “on the other hand” in your sentences.
| Synonym | Use In Sentence | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| However | I wanted to go out. However, it started raining. | Shows contrast |
| But | He is rich but not happy. | Simple contrast |
| Yet | She’s tired, yet she keeps working. | Contradicting idea |
| Although | Although it’s cold, we went swimming. | Expresses opposite condition |
| Though | He’s strict, though kind at heart. | Mild contrast |
| Nevertheless | It was late; nevertheless, she continued. | Opposite result |
| Nonetheless | It was risky; nonetheless, they tried. | Despite that |
| Still | The task was hard, still, he managed. | In spite of that |
| Even so | The team lost; even so, they played well. | Despite a negative fact |
| Whereas | He likes coffee, whereas she prefers tea. | Comparing difference |
| While | While he works hard, he needs rest. | Expresses contrast |
| In contrast | In contrast to her sister, she is shy. | Highlights difference |
| By contrast | His house is small. By contrast, mine is big. | Emphasises difference |
| Conversely | She loves crowds; conversely, I enjoy peace. | Opposite situation |
| Instead | I didn’t drive; I took the bus instead. | Alternative action |
| Alternatively | You can email me or, alternatively, call me. | Gives another option |
| In comparison | In comparison to last year, prices are higher. | Comparing two things |
| In opposition | His views are in opposition to mine. | Completely opposite |
| At the same time | She is shy; at the same time, she is confident. | Adds balance |
| On the flip side | He’s strict; on the flip side, he’s fair. | Shows the other side |
| That said | It’s a good plan. That said, it may be costly. | Adds a different opinion |
| Having said that | It’s not perfect; having said that, it works. | Expresses partial agreement |
| Nonetheless | It’s hard work; nonetheless, it’s rewarding. | Despite the challenge |
| Still and all | It was tough; still and all, they succeeded. | Old-fashioned form of contrast |
| Even though | Even though it’s raining, let’s go. | Despite condition |
| On the contrary | He isn’t lazy; on the contrary, he’s hardworking. | Total opposite idea |
| In any case | In any case, we must finish the work. | Adds alternative focus |
| All the same | It’s risky; all the same, I’ll try. | Despite the risk |
| In spite of that | It’s raining; in spite of that, we went out. | Despite something |
How to Use Synonyms in Sentences
You can use these phrases to start a sentence or to join two parts of the same sentence.
Examples:
I enjoy travelling. However, I also like staying home.
He is friendly. By contrast, his brother is quiet.
I was tired; nevertheless, I finished my homework.
When to Use “On the Other Hand”
Use “on the other hand” and its synonyms when you want to:
- Show contrast between two ideas
- Compare two sides of something
- Give an opposite opinion
Examples:
The hotel is expensive. On the other hand, it’s very comfortable.
Learning grammar is difficult. That said, it’s important.
Short Examples for Practice
- She loves winter. However, I prefer summer.
- He is rich. On the contrary, he doesn’t look happy.
- I wanted to rest. Still, I went to work.
- In contrast to last week, today is sunny.
- Having said that, the plan seems fine.
Summary for on the Other Hand
The phrase “on the other hand” helps to express contrast or show the opposite side of an idea.
Using its synonyms like however, yet, in contrast, on the contrary, and nevertheless makes your English more natural and less repetitive.
FAQs for On the Other Hand
What is another word for “on the other hand”?
You can use however, nevertheless, in contrast, yet, or on the contrary.
Can I use “but” instead of “on the other hand”?
Yes, but is a simple synonym used to show contrast in short sentences.
What is the formal synonym for “on the other hand”?
Conversely, nevertheless, or in contrast are more formal alternatives.
What is the informal synonym for “on the other hand”?
That said, on the flip side, and still are commonly used in informal English.
How can I use “on the other hand” correctly?
Use it to introduce an opposite idea, usually after a comma. Example: I love coffee. On the other hand, tea is healthier.
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