How to use "on the one hand"

What Does "on the one hand" Mean?

• Grammatical function: contrast; introduces the first element in a comparison or presentation of opposing arguments.
• Typical sentence position: initial
• Register: neutral to formal

How to Use It

• Syntactic patterns: It is typically followed by a clause expressing a particular point of view or fact. It is almost always paired with "on the other hand," either explicitly stated or implied. If "on the other hand" is omitted, the reader expects it to follow.
• Punctuation rules: A comma typically follows "on the one hand" to separate it from the main clause.
• Grammatical flexibility: It can start a sentence. It can be moved within a sentence, but this is less common and can sound awkward. It cannot be negated directly.
• What sounds unnatural or incorrect: Using "on the one hand" without a corresponding "on the other hand" feels incomplete. Using it to introduce a single, non-contrasting point is also incorrect.

Real-World Examples

"On the one hand, this is comforting." — Harvard Business Review

"On the one hand there's Ira Hayes." — The Guardian

"On the one hand, she was brilliant." — The Guardian

"On the one hand, it's easy." — The Guardian

"On the one hand, things look promising." — The Guardian - Lifestyle

Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/on+the+one+hand

Similar Phrases and Alternatives

Phrase	Context
alternatively	Introduces a different option or possibility.
by contrast	Emphasizes a direct opposition.
conversely	Indicates a reversal of a previous statement.
in contrast	Similar to 'by contrast', but potentially less emphatic.
then again	Introduces a contrasting thought, often more informal.
on the flip side	Informal way of introducing an opposing viewpoint.
that being said	Introduces a contrasting point after a previous statement.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting the corresponding "on the other hand" is a common mistake, leaving the comparison incomplete.
• Using it in a situation where no contrast exists.
• Incorrectly placing the comma, or omitting it entirely.

A common mistake is forgetting to follow it with "on the other hand" to complete the contrasting structure, leaving the statement unbalanced.

Quick-Reference Summary

Expression	Function	Register	Typical Position
on the one hand	Introduces one side of a contrast or argument	Neutral to Formal	Sentence-initial

FAQs

Where can "on the one hand" appear in a sentence?

"On the one hand" almost always appears at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the first point in a comparison or contrast. While grammatically possible to place it mid-clause, it is stylistically awkward and should be avoided. Its primary function is to signal the start of a balanced argument.

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How does "on the one hand" differ from "alternatively"?

"On the one hand" introduces one side of a balanced argument, implying a contrasting "on the other hand" will follow. "Alternatively," on the other hand, simply presents another option or possibility without necessarily setting up a direct opposition. "Alternatively" offers a choice, while "on the one hand" creates a comparative structure.

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What's the best way to correct the mistake of using "on the one hand" without "on the other hand"?

If you've used "on the one hand" but realize you haven't provided the contrasting viewpoint, the simplest correction is to add "on the other hand" followed by the opposing argument. If you decide not to include the second part, it's best to rephrase the sentence using a different connective or removing "on the one hand" entirely to avoid an incomplete thought.