We often use the phrase “on the other hand” to introduce a contrasting point of view, fact, or even a situation. However, there are always better-suited alternatives in any given situation. This article will explore ten different options that we can avidly choose from.
What Can I Say Instead Of “On The Other Hand”?
While “on the other hand” isn’t an improper phrase to use, it is very common – making it appear overused or tired. Therefore, this article will highlight the following, more appropriate options:
- Contrastingly
- However
- On the contrary
- In opposition
- Instead
- Rather
- In reverse
- Conversely
- If anything
- Alternatively
The preferred version is “contrastingly”. This is because the term means the act of contrasting. Therefore, it’s the perfect term to begin the introduction of a new point of view, fact, etc. This term is very clear, which will cause the audience to understand that they should pay attention.
Contrastingly
When we choose to use the term “contrastingly”, we are beginning to set off dissimilar entities or objects from those previously mentioned. We are attempting to create an exhibit of unlikeliness, by using a term that will draw the attention of a listener.
When we use terms like “contrastingly”, we do grab a reader or audience member’s attention, as they become aware that a new topic or argumentative point is about to be introduced.
To correctly use this term, here are a few helpful examples:
- Contrastingly, the red berries taste much sweeter than the blue.
- The bedroom is designed contrastingly, in shades of black and yellow.
- The best time to buy shoes, contrastingly, is in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest.
However
Another excellent option that we can choose to use is “however”. We generally use this term to introduce a statement or remark that contrasts with or seems to refute or contradict something that has been previously said or pointed out.
We can also use the word “however” to describe how something does not change, regardless of how it is viewed, perceived, etc.
Generally, we will use the word “however” at the beginning of a sentence or in the middle, to break up differing facts. Regardless, “however” should always be followed by a comma.
Here are a few examples to showcase how we can use this term:
- The sky is generally very clear, however, today it is grey and cloudy.
- However, you look at it, you cannot criticize her work.
- Carrots are delicious raw; however, these are cooked.
On The Contrary
We can use “on the contrary” when we wish to strongly imply a denial to what has just been presented, stated, etc. This is considered a very formal and appropriate way of speaking to someone. One does not have to feel rude when they are introducing a counterpoint.
We can also use this phrase when we wish to convey that the opposite of what has been said, is the case. This is a perfect statement to use when we wish to express contradictive points in a conversation.
Some ways we can use this phrase are:
- There was no malice in him, on the contrary, he was a very nice man.
- That was not a good decision; on the contrary, it was a huge mistake!
- It doesn’t appear ugly to me; on the contrary, I think it’s rather gorgeous.
In Opposition
“In opposition” is another option that we can choose to use instead of the original statement. We use this statement when we wish to introduce a counterpoint to an argument or discussion with someone. This is considered to be a formal way of addressing an opposing point.
When we choose to use this statement, we are setting something as an opposite. This would only be considered a proper statement to use if our point is in fact, the opposite of the original. It would be entirely nonsensical if used under different circumstances.
To further clarify, here are a few examples:
- He spoke in opposition to the newly decided upon laws.
- Black is considered to be in opposition of the shade, white.
- Her theories stand in opposition to our original beliefs.
Instead
“Instead” is another similar choice we can use when we wish to introduce a differing point to a conversation or argument. When we choose to use this term, we are beginning to describe something as an alternative or substitute to the original point.
When we use the word “instead” conversationally, we are often pointing out our preferred alternative to something someone else has already mentioned. While this isn’t considered impolite, we must remember to remain conscious of other folk’s opinions.
We do not mean to use the word “instead” as a way to provoke arguments, merely to showcase a differing viewpoint or option.
Here are a few ways we can use this term conversationally:
- I think I would like to walk to school today, instead of getting a drive.
- Do not put on a sticky band-aid! You should consider using clean dressing or gauze instead.
- She didn’t feel the need to answer. Instead, she stared quietly out the window.
Rather
Another usable term that carries a similar meaning and purpose is “rather”. This is another considerably versatile term, coming with multiple uses. When we choose to say “rather”, we are generally using this term to indicate our preferences in a particular matter.
When we use this term to indicate our personal preferences, we are often indicating they are favoured over the previously mentioned choice or alternative.
At the same time, we can also use this term to explain a situation, mood, etc., to an extent or a certain degree.
Some ways in which we can use this term are:
- Would you like to try some coffee or would you rather stick with tea?
- He’s been behaving rather oddly this week. I do hope everything is okay!
- Would you rather go bowling or go to the movies on Friday?
In Reverse
Another statement we can use is “in reverse”. This is a phrase that’s not as commonly used or heard, but it does still carry a consistent meaning. Quite clearly, when we use this phrase, we are describing something that is in the opposite direction or manner from the usual.
We often use this phrase when discussing very differing factors, directions, abnormalities, etc. While not as common, folks will certainly know what we mean by saying something is “in reverse”.
Like with any other statement, it’s important to know how to adequately use this phrase in a sentence or it could come across as incorrect or improper to your audience.
To help further explain, here are a few examples using this phrase:
- Todd tells the story in reverse, from the moment Dumbledore dies. He hates that part!
- The upward trend went in reverse and soon we were all losing money.
- The car began to go in reverse and was soon plummeting down the hill.
Conversely
Another excellent option for us to discuss is the term “conversely”. This is another term that is considered to be quite formal or professional, making it a good choice for a workplace or formal setting. Essentially, we use this term to introduce a counterargument or point.
When we choose to use the term “conversely”, we are attempting to introduce a statement or idea that reverses or opposes one that has been previously made.
While this isn’t considered to be an impolite manner of speaking, it is important to always remain cordial in moments of discussion or argument. Especially when folks are bringing up their personal beliefs or opinions.
Here are a few examples to showcase how we can use this term:
- Conversely, managers we not able to access the customer service data.
- Whether you have body parts you wish to conceal, or conversely, one’s you want to show off – we have the clothing for you!
- Conversely, if you choose to underpay, interest rates will begin to accumulate on the amount owing.
If Anything
“If anything” is another seemingly uncommon option for folks to use. While this may be because this phrase is considered informal, this statement is appropriate and hold consistent meaning to that of our original statement. We often use this response after a negative statement has been presented to us.
When we say “if anything”, we are often introducing a statement that adds to or reaffirms what has been previously saying.
We also often use this phrase to describe something or someone we believe to be different but are not entirely sure whether there has been a change or difference.
Some ways we can use this statement are:
- The situation is, if anything, worsening as the day goes on.
- If anything, she appears to be much fitter and more rejuvenated than she did before.
- I’ve never had to clean up after the cats, if anything, they cleaned up after themselves.
Alternatively
The last phrase we will go over as a different option is “alternatively”. This is another consistent phrase that we can choose to utilize when we wish to describe something as another option, choice or possibility in a given situation.
When we use the word “alternatively”, we often want to showcase another important possibility or choice to our audience. Often, this is a personal preference that we are choosing to add as an option.
It is not considered impolite to give alternatives or other options to someone. It’s just important to always take their views or opinions into consideration.
Lastly, here are our final examples to go over for this article:
- Alternatively, you can choose to phone us directly, as opposed to email.
- It takes 24 hours to drive to Florida or, alternatively, we can choose to fly there.
- You can have one friend over tonight or, alternatively, you can wait for the weekend and have three friends over.