Other Ways to Say “On the Other Hand”

“On the other hand” is a common transitional phrase used to introduce contrast or an alternative point of view. However, in writing and speech, it’s helpful to vary your language. Here are several effective alternatives to “on the other hand,” along with examples and tips for usage.

Common Synonyms for “On the Other Hand”

Alternative Phrase	Usage Example
Conversely	She enjoys city life. Conversely, her brother prefers the countryside.
In contrast	The north experienced drought. In contrast, the south had heavy rain.
However	He’s good at math. However, he struggles with reading comprehension.
Alternatively	We could go by car. Alternatively, we could take the train.
Yet	It seems like a simple task, yet it’s surprisingly difficult.
Then again	He might agree with us. Then again, he might not.
That said	The book was well-written. That said, it wasn’t very exciting.
Nonetheless	The job is tough. Nonetheless, it’s rewarding.
Still	The weather was bad. Still, we decided to hike.
But then	I could finish it now. But then, I might wait until tomorrow.

When to Use Alternatives

Choosing the right alternative depends on context and tone:

• Formal writing: Use “conversely,” “in contrast,” or “however.”
• Casual writing or conversation: Use “then again,” “but then,” or “still.”
• Comparative arguments: “Alternatively” and “that said” are useful when offering different choices or counterpoints.

Using Alternatives Effectively

Overusing a single phrase like “on the other hand” can make writing repetitive. Switching between different transitional phrases improves readability and engagement. Make sure the chosen alternative maintains clarity and accurately conveys the intended contrast.

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