on the other hand
in Spanishpor otro lado
/por OH-troh LAH-doh/
This is the most direct and common translation for 'on the other hand.' It's a versatile phrase used to introduce a contrasting or alternative point in any context, from casual chats to formal essays.
Just like a scale weighs two different things, phrases like 'por otro lado' help you present two contrasting sides of an argument.
💬Other Ways to Say It
por otra parte
/por OH-trah PAR-teh/
An extremely common alternative that's virtually identical in meaning to 'por otro lado.' It literally means 'on the other part' and is used to present another side of the issue.
en cambio
/en KAHM-bee-oh/
This phrase implies a stronger contrast, closer to 'in contrast' or 'instead.' It's used when you're highlighting a direct opposition between two ideas or situations.
sin embargo
/seen em-BAR-goh/
This is the classic way to say 'however' or 'nevertheless.' It serves a very similar function to 'on the other hand' by introducing a point that contrasts with or limits the previous statement.
por el contrario
/por el kohn-TRAH-ree-oh/
This translates to 'on the contrary' and is used to express a very strong, direct opposition. You're not just adding another perspective; you're stating the opposite is true.
ahora bien
/ah-OH-rah bee-EN/
A more formal and literary connector, similar to 'that said,' 'now,' or 'well now.' It's used to introduce a new point that qualifies, clarifies, or contrasts with what was just mentioned, often to pivot the argument.
🔑Key Words
Key Words to learn:
📊Quick Comparison
Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best phrase for introducing a contrasting idea.
| Phrase | Best For | Strength of Contrast | Example Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Por otro lado / Por otra parte | Neutral | Adding a different perspective or side to an argument. | |
| En cambio | Neutral | Highlighting a direct opposition between two things. | |
| Sin embargo | Neutral | Introducing a counterpoint or obstacle ('however'). | |
| Por el contrario | Neutral | Directly refuting or denying a previous statement. | |
| Ahora bien | Formal | Formal writing or speeches to pivot the argument thoughtfully. |
📈Difficulty Level
The sounds are generally straightforward for English speakers. The rolling 'r' in 'otro' and 'contrario' might take a little practice.
These are fixed phrases, so you don't need to worry about conjugations or gender agreement. Just memorize them as a chunk.
The main challenge is learning the subtle differences in strength and context between the variations to choose the most appropriate one.
Key Challenges:
- Distinguishing between 'por otro lado' (adding a point) and 'en cambio' (strong contrast).
- Avoiding the literal translation 'por otra mano'.
💡Examples in Action
Me encanta vivir en la ciudad por la energía. Por otro lado, el ruido puede ser agotador.
I love living in the city for the energy. On the other hand, the noise can be exhausting.
El informe muestra buenos resultados. Sin embargo, debemos ser cautelosos con las proyecciones futuras.
The report shows good results. However, we must be cautious with future projections.
Mi hermana es muy extrovertida. Yo, en cambio, soy bastante tímido.
My sister is very extroverted. I, in contrast, am quite shy.
No creo que la película sea mala. Por el contrario, me pareció una obra de arte.
I don't think the movie is bad. On the contrary, I thought it was a work of art.
🌍Cultural Context
A Sign of Fluent Argumentation
Using transition words like 'por otro lado' or 'sin embargo' is a key sign that you're moving beyond basic sentences. In Spanish-speaking cultures, being able to present a balanced argument in conversation or writing is highly valued, and these phrases are the essential tools to do it.
The Power of the Pause
In spoken Spanish, you'll often hear a slight pause right after these phrases. For example: 'Me gusta la idea... por otro lado, (pause) creo que es arriesgada.' This pause gives weight to the contrasting point and signals to the listener that an important shift in thought is coming.
Not Just for Debates
While these phrases are crucial for formal debates and writing, they are used constantly in everyday life. People use them to weigh options ('Quiero ir a la playa, pero por otro lado, va a llover'), express mixed feelings, or simply add nuance to a story.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Literal Translation Error: 'Por otra mano'
Mistake: "Using 'por otra mano' because 'mano' means 'hand'."
Correction: Use 'por otro lado' or 'por otra parte'.
Confusing 'Por otro lado' and 'En cambio'
Mistake: "Using 'en cambio' when you just want to add another perspective, not a direct contrast."
Correction: Use 'por otro lado' for adding a point, 'en cambio' for a strong contrast.
Forgetting the Comma
Mistake: "Writing 'Por otro lado es caro' without a comma."
Correction: Por otro lado, es caro.
💡Pro Tips
Vary Your Connectors
To sound more natural and sophisticated, especially in writing, try to cycle through different connectors. Instead of using 'por otro lado' three times in a paragraph, switch it up with 'por otra parte' and 'sin embargo'.
Think of them as Signposts
These phrases are like traffic signals for your listener or reader. They clearly indicate that you're about to change direction in your argument. Using them makes your thoughts easier to follow.
Listen for Nuance
Pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases. Notice when they choose the stronger contrast of 'en cambio' versus the softer addition of 'por otro lado.' This will help you develop a feel for the subtle differences.
🗺️Regional Variations
Universal (Spain & Latin America)
The usage of these connectors is remarkably consistent across the Spanish-speaking world, making them very safe to use anywhere. 'Ahora bien' might be perceived as slightly more common in formal or academic writing from Spain, but it's understood everywhere.
💬What Comes Next?
After you've presented a contrasting point with 'por otro lado'
Es un buen punto.
That's a good point.
Sí, hay que pensar en todo.
Yes, we have to think about everything.
You use 'sin embargo' to point out a problem
No lo había pensado.
I hadn't thought of that.
Es un factor importante.
It's an important factor.
You use 'en cambio' to show a preference
¿Ah, sí? ¿Por qué?
Oh, really? Why?
Bueno, para mí es más cómodo.
Well, for me it's more comfortable.
🧠Memory Tricks
This visual connects the Spanish word 'lado' (side) directly to the English concept of seeing the 'other side' of an argument.
When you use 'en cambio', you're signaling a 'change' in direction or a total contrast from the previous idea.
🔄How It Differs from English
While English primarily relies on 'on the other hand' and 'however,' Spanish offers a wider palette of common connectors with more specific nuances. The distinction between adding a point ('por otro lado') and presenting a direct contrast ('en cambio') is more sharply defined with distinct phrases than in English.
False Friends & Common Confusions:
Why it's different: This is a literal word-for-word translation that makes no sense in Spanish. The correct idiom is 'por otro lado' (by the other side).
Use instead: Always use 'por otro lado' or one of its correct variations.
🎯Your Learning Path
➡️ Learn Next:
How to say 'I think that'
After presenting two sides with 'por otro lado', you'll often want to state your own opinion with 'creo que' or 'pienso que'.
How to say 'therefore' or 'so'
Learning cause-and-effect connectors like 'por lo tanto' or 'así que' is the next logical step after learning contrasting connectors.
How to say 'in addition'
Learning 'además' (in addition) allows you to add supporting points, which complements your ability to add contrasting points.
How to agree and disagree
These connectors are often used in discussions, so knowing how to say 'I agree' ('estoy de acuerdo') or 'I don't agree' ('no estoy de acuerdo') is essential.
✏️Test Your Knowledge
💡 Quick Quiz: on the other hand
Question 1 of 3
You want to say: 'I like dogs. My brother, in contrast, prefers cats.' Which phrase best emphasizes the direct opposition?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the real difference between 'por otro lado' and 'por otra parte'?
Honestly, there's virtually no difference in meaning or usage. They are completely interchangeable synonyms. Using both can make your Spanish sound more varied and natural, especially in writing, but you can't go wrong choosing either one.
Can I start a sentence with 'Sin embargo'?
Yes, absolutely! It's very common to start a sentence with 'Sin embargo,' followed by a comma. For example: 'El viaje fue largo. Sin embargo, valió la pena.' (The trip was long. However, it was worth it.)
Is 'en cambio' more like 'instead' or 'on the other hand'?
It's closer to 'in contrast' or 'instead.' It highlights a choice or situation that is different from another one. For example, 'No fuimos al cine; en cambio, nos quedamos en casa.' (We didn't go to the movies; instead, we stayed home.)
Why can't I say 'por otra mano'?
Because it's a literal translation of an English idiom that doesn't exist in Spanish. Idiomatic expressions rarely translate word-for-word between languages. The correct Spanish idiom is 'por otro lado' (literally 'on the other side').
Are these phrases common in everyday spoken Spanish?
Yes, very! While some like 'ahora bien' are more formal, you will hear 'por otro lado,' 'en cambio,' and 'sin embargo' constantly in everyday conversations when people are comparing options, telling stories, or expressing opinions.
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