Ask About English!!! Q23: 'on the contrary'

Hi

What's the difference between
On the other hand and
On the contrary?

The Tran


Hi

Both phrases are used when introducing a new idea/point of view, however..

on the contrary introduces an idea in opposition to what has been stated or what is expected.

on the other hand introduces an idea in contrast to what has been stated or what is expected (from another point of view). This view is not necessarily in opposition to the previous idea.

Consider these examples:

I'm not sick; on the contrary, I'm in the peak of health
I'm not sick; on the other hand, I'm not feeling very healthy

The government is not investing more money in the health service; on the contrary, it has decreased health spending
The government is not investing more money in the health service; on the other hand, it has improved efficiency in the health sector

Hope this answers you question

Thanks

Matt