On the one hand
in SpanishPor un lado
/por oon LAH-doh/
This is the most direct and standard translation for 'on the one hand.' It's used to introduce the first of two contrasting ideas and almost always signals that a 'por otro lado' (on the other hand) is coming next.
Like weighing the pros and cons of the weather, 'Por un lado' helps you present the first of two contrasting ideas.
💬Other Ways to Say It
Por una parte
/por OO-nah PAR-tay/
An extremely common alternative that is virtually interchangeable with 'Por un lado.' The choice between 'lado' (side) and 'parte' (part) is usually just a matter of personal preference or rhythm in the sentence.
En primer lugar
/en pree-MAIR loo-GAR/
This translates more literally to 'In the first place' or 'Firstly.' It serves a similar function of introducing the first point in a structured argument, especially when you're listing several points.
Para empezar
/PAH-rah em-peh-ZAR/
Meaning 'To begin with' or 'To start with,' this is a versatile and common way to introduce your first point, reason, or part of a story. It's slightly less focused on direct contrast than 'por un lado.'
Primero que nada
/pree-MAIR-oh kay NAH-dah/
A more conversational equivalent of 'First of all.' It's used to forcefully present your initial and often most important point before getting to anything else.
🔑Key Words
Key Words to learn:
📊Quick Comparison
Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best phrase for introducing the first point in your argument.
| Phrase | Formality | Best For | Avoid When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Por un lado / Por una parte | Neutral | Directly comparing two contrasting ideas or aspects of a single topic (A vs. B). | You're just listing points in a sequence without a direct contrast. |
| En primer lugar | Neutral to Formal | Structuring formal arguments, academic essays, or professional presentations. | Very casual chats where 'Primero...' or 'Para empezar...' would sound more natural. |
| Para empezar / Primero que nada | Neutral to Informal | Starting a story, an informal explanation, or a list of reasons in conversation. | Highly formal academic or legal writing where 'En primer lugar' is expected. |
📈Difficulty Level
All the sounds in 'por un lado' are very familiar and easy for English speakers. The 'd' in 'lado' is a bit softer than in English, almost like the 'th' in 'the'.
This is a fixed connector phrase, so you don't have to change its form. The main challenge is learning to build two complete, contrasting sentences around it.
The concept is almost identical to English. The main nuance is choosing the right phrase ('por un lado' vs. 'en primer lugar') based on the formality of the situation.
Key Challenges:
- Remembering to always follow up with a contrasting point.
- Avoiding the very common literal translation 'en una mano'.
💡Examples in Action
Por un lado, la oferta de trabajo es excelente, pero por otro lado, implica mudarse a otra ciudad.
On the one hand, the job offer is excellent, but on the other hand, it means moving to another city.
Por una parte, entiendo tu punto de vista. Por otra, no podemos ignorar los datos.
On the one hand, I understand your point of view. On the other, we can't ignore the data.
Para empezar, la película era muy larga y, además, el final no tenía sentido.
To begin with, the movie was very long and, on top of that, the ending didn't make sense.
En primer lugar, analizaremos la situación actual. En segundo lugar, propondremos soluciones.
In the first place, we will analyze the current situation. Secondly, we will propose solutions.
🌍Cultural Context
The Art of Balanced Argument
In Spanish-speaking cultures, structuring an argument with contrasting points is highly valued in discussions and debates. Using phrases like 'Por un lado... por otro lado...' shows that you are a thoughtful speaker who considers multiple perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
A Sign of Fluency
Mastering these connecting phrases, known as 'conectores discursivos,' is a major step toward sounding more fluent. They are the glue that holds complex sentences together and allows you to move beyond simple statements, making your speech sound more natural and sophisticated.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Literal Translation Trap
Mistake: "Saying 'en una mano' to mean 'on the one hand.'"
Correction: Por un lado / Por una parte.
The Unfinished Thought
Mistake: "Using 'Por un lado' and then never presenting the contrasting point."
Correction: Always follow 'Por un lado...' with a '...pero por otro lado,' '...pero también,' or a similar contrasting phrase.
Using 'Primeramente'
Mistake: "Using 'primeramente' instead of 'en primer lugar.'"
Correction: En primer lugar.
💡Pro Tips
Think in Pairs
Train your brain to think of 'Por un lado' and 'Por otro lado' as a team. Whenever you use the first one, have the second one ready to go. This structure is the key to using the phrase correctly.
Vary Your Connectors
To make your Spanish sound more dynamic, don't rely solely on 'por un lado.' Mix in 'por una parte' for variety. When you're listing points in order, switch to 'en primer lugar' to show off your range.
Signal Your Structure
Use these phrases right at the beginning of your sentence. This acts as a clear signpost for your listener, telling them exactly how you're structuring your thoughts and making you much easier to follow.
🗺️Regional Variations
Spain
The usage is standard and aligns with most of the Spanish-speaking world. The primary differences are phonetic, particularly the 'ceceo/distinción' (the 'th' sound for Z and C before E/I).
Mexico
'Primero que nada' is quite common in conversational Mexican Spanish to introduce a point with emphasis. Otherwise, usage is universal and standard.
Argentina
Usage is standard. Argentinians, particularly in formal or academic settings, are adept at structuring arguments, making these connectors very common in debates and discussions.
💬What Comes Next?
After you've presented the first point with 'Por un lado...'
Entiendo. ¿Y cuál es el otro lado?
I understand. And what's the other side?
Pues, por otro lado, tenemos que considerar el presupuesto.
Well, on the other hand, we have to consider the budget.
You start an explanation with 'Para empezar...'
Ok, te escucho.
Ok, I'm listening.
Para empezar, llegamos tarde. Y además, no habíamos reservado mesa.
To start with, we arrived late. And on top of that, we hadn't booked a table.
🎯Your Learning Path
➡️ Learn Next:
On the other hand
This is the natural and essential second half of the phrase 'Por un lado'.
However
Learning other connectors like 'sin embargo' or 'no obstante' will expand your ability to express contrast.
In addition / Furthermore
After learning to contrast ideas, the next logical step is learning to add ideas with phrases like 'además'.
Therefore
This helps you build logical arguments by stating a cause and then a result using phrases like 'por lo tanto'.
✏️Test Your Knowledge
💡 Quick Quiz: On the one hand
Question 1 of 3
You want to tell your friend your opinion on a new restaurant, which has good food but bad service. How do you start?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the real difference between 'Por un lado' and 'Por una parte'?
Honestly, there is almost no difference in meaning or usage. They are interchangeable 99% of the time. Some speakers might have a slight personal preference, but you can use either one without any issue. Think of it like the difference between 'on one hand' and 'on one side' in English.
Do I always have to say 'Por otro lado' after 'Por un lado'?
It's highly recommended. The phrase 'Por un lado' creates a strong expectation of a contrasting point. While you could use other words like 'pero' (but) or 'sin embargo' (however), the most natural and balanced structure is the 'Por un lado... por otro lado...' pair.
Can I use 'En primer lugar' to compare just two things?
Yes, you can. You could say 'En primer lugar, es barato. En segundo lugar, es de alta calidad.' It's typically used for lists, but a list can have just two items. However, if the two items are in direct contrast, 'Por un lado...' is often a more natural choice.
Is 'Primero' by itself okay to use?
Absolutely. In casual conversation, just saying 'Primero, no me llamó. Segundo, ya era tarde' ('First, he didn't call me. Second, it was already late') is very common and natural. It's a more direct and less formal way to list your points.
How do I avoid the 'en una mano' mistake?
The best way is to create a strong mental link: when you think 'argument' or 'contrast,' your brain should immediately go to 'lado' (side) or 'parte' (part), not 'mano' (hand). Practice saying 'Por un lado, es bueno. Por otro lado, es malo' over and over until it becomes automatic.
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