"On the Other Hand ..." Phrases for Making Comparisons
Words like "but" and "however" are useful for making comparisons. But always using the same one or two words can get boring quickly, so it's useful to know other ways to say the same thing.
This time, we'll introduce several alternatives you can use to make comparisons or point out differences between things. Learn them all to keep your conversations sounding more dynamic and fluent.
Single-Use Phrases
There are two different types of expressions we'll look at in this article. The first type is only used for making comparisons and showing contrast.
But/However
Most English learners will probably know at least one of these words. Both are used when you want to say that something is different from what was said earlier.
I planned to order a pizza, but I decided to cook instead.
Of these two words, "but" sounds less formal. Also, "however" often indicates a stronger contrast between the things being compared.
You can learn a lot of things on the internet, but it also contains a lot of fake information.
You can learn a lot of things on the internet. However, it also contains a lot of fake information.
On the other hand
This phrase is a strong way to show a clear difference between two things.
This apartment is quiet and affordable. On the other hand, it's not in a very convenient location.
A vacation in Europe would be fun. On the other hand, we'd have more time to relax if we went somewhere closer.
In contrast (to/with)
This has a slightly formal tone.
In contrast to yesterday's cloudy weather, today is bright and sunny.
John is tall and slim, in contrast with his brother, who is short and muscular.
Related article: 16 Words for Describing Different Body Types
By contrast
Another option is "by contrast," which used similarly to "on the other hand."
The city is noisy and crowded. By contrast, the countryside is peaceful and quiet.
Whereas
"Whereas" is similar to "but," though it sounds a bit more formal.
Maya is an outdoor person, whereas her brother likes to stay indoors.
She thinks money matters most, whereas he thinks time is more important.
Double-Use Phrases
The second type we'll look at are phrases that can be used for making comparisons as well as for talking about two things that happen at the same time.
While
"While" can mean "during the time something else takes place."
She will stay at her friend's house while she's in Spain.
It can also be used to show a clear difference between two things.
Maya is an outdoor person, while her brother likes to stay indoors.
Meanwhile
In the first example below, "meanwhile" is used to talk about things happening together in time.
If you don't mind, please make dessert. Meanwhile, I'll prepare lunch.
Its other usage is to show strong contrast.
In some countries, it's normal to leave a tip for workers. Meanwhile, tipping isn't common in places like Japan.
(But) at the same time
This phrase is unique because it can connect two situations happening at the same while also showing a contrast.
He works as a teacher, but at the same time, he's studying to get his degree.
This coffee tastes bitter, but at the same time, it has a little bit of sweetness.
Related article: Go Juice: English Slang for Coffee and Caffeine
Wrap-up
It's always good to know different ways of saying the same thing — both for you to communicate effectively and to understand more of what others say to you.
There will likely be times in many conversations when two things are compared, so make sure you're prepared by learning these useful expressions. They'll definitely come in handy when you need them!
