Idioms

on the one hand | on the other hand

This page is about the idiom on the one hand | on the other hand

Meaning

You can say "on the one hand" before describing one of two contrasting ideas, options, or opinions, and then say "on the other hand" before describing the other one.

For example

  • On the one hand smokers should have the right to smoke if they want to, but on the other hand non-smokers should have the right to breathe smoke-free air.

  • On the one hand I love the freedom of being single, but on the other hand the idea of being married and having a family is very attractive.

Quick Quiz

On the one hand playing computer games can be a lot of fun, but on the other hand

a. it's easy to waste too much time on them

b. they can be very enjoyable

c. they aren't very expensive
a) it's easy to waste too much time on them b) they can be very enjoyable c) they aren't very expensive

Learn idioms easily with
Common English Idioms PDF ebook!

Common English Idioms

Contributor: Matt Errey