Yes, you can use "on the other hand" without using "on one hand," although the reverse is not typically true.
Understanding "On the One Hand" and "On the Other Hand"
These phrases are transitional expressions used to introduce contrasting points or ideas. Here's a breakdown:
- "On one hand...": This phrase is used to introduce the first of two contrasting points.
- "On the other hand...": This phrase introduces a contrasting point to the previous one. It is often used to show a different perspective or option.
Using "On the Other Hand" Independently
According to the provided reference, while it's unusual to use "on one hand" without an accompanying "on the other hand," the phrase "on the other hand" is commonly used by itself.
- Independent Usage: "On the other hand" can effectively introduce a contrasting idea even without a preceding "on one hand." This often occurs when the first point is implicit or has already been stated.
- Example: You might say, "The weather is great today. On the other hand, I have a lot of work to do." In this case, the "on the other hand" contrasts with the implied positive feeling about the weather.
Practical Implications
Here's a table summarizing the usage of these phrases:
| Phrase | Usage | Common? |
|---|---|---|
| "On one hand..." | Typically used with a subsequent "on the other hand" phrase. | No |
| "On the other hand..." | Can be used alone to introduce a contrasting point, or with "on one hand" | Yes |
Key Takeaway
- "On the other hand" stands alone: It's perfectly acceptable and common to use "on the other hand" by itself to introduce a contrasting viewpoint.
- "On one hand" usually requires a counterpart: While grammatically correct, using "on one hand" without a subsequent "on the other hand" sounds incomplete and is rarely used in practice.
In short, feel free to employ "on the other hand" to present opposing ideas, whether or not you've explicitly stated a previous one using "on one hand."
