Meaning
used to present two contrasting or complementary points of view
Primary Function
contrastive balancing discourse opener
Communicative Purpose
shows a balanced consideration of two sides of an issue
Pattern
On the one hand; on the other hand
Core Structure
On the one hand; on the other hand
Função primária
contrastive balancing discourse opener
Propósito comunicativo
shows a balanced consideration of two sides of an issue
Situações de gatilho
essays, discussions, evaluations, debates
Contextos
academic, professional, everyday conversations
Padrão
On the one hand; on the other hand
Estrutura central
On the one hand; on the other hand
Slots de substituição
The phrase 'On the one side ... on the other side' can be used as a less common variant.
Colocados típicos
- while
- however
- nevertheless
Substituições comuns
- 'On the one hand' can sometimes be omitted if previous context implies it (just 'On the other hand')
Erros comuns
Using only 'On the other hand' without a preceding 'On the one hand' to establish contrast; confusing with 'On the contrary', which refutes rather than balances.
Similar / contraste
Conversely, Whereas, However
Interferências
Learners from Romance language backgrounds often use 'On one side ... on the other side' — acceptable but less idiomatic in English.
Família do chunk
- balancing contrast frames
- comparative structures
Nuance
balanced, analytical; signals objectivity and critical thinking
Efeito pragmático
demonstrates critical thinking, ideal for IELTS or academic writing, and enhances argumentation
Dica de memória
two hands = two sides of an argument
Nota
This chunk is essential for balanced argumentation in English.
Upgrade path
from 'but' → 'However' → 'On the one hand ... on the other hand'
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