Translation guide
A phrase used to introduce a contrasting point or an alternative perspective. In Japanese, the expression depends on whether you are contrasting two facts, balancing pros and cons, or shifting to a different topic.
To present a fact or situation that is different from or opposite to the previous one.
Used to contrast two different facts or situations. Often appears in written or formal spoken Japanese. Can be used at the beginning of a sentence or after a clause.
彼はとても真面目だ。一方で、ユーモアのセンスもある。
He is very serious. On the other hand, he also has a sense of humor.
この仕事は給料がいい。一方で、残業が多い。
This job pays well. On the other hand, there's a lot of overtime.
Similar to 一方で, but slightly more formal and often used in written language. Emphasizes the other side of a matter.
この政策は経済成長を促す。他方では、環境への影響が懸念される。
This policy promotes economic growth. On the other hand, there are concerns about its environmental impact.
Used to introduce a contrasting aspect of the same thing, often a negative point after a positive one, or vice versa. Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
このアプリは便利だ。その反面、バッテリーの消費が激しい。
This app is convenient. On the other hand, it drains the battery a lot.
To weigh advantages and disadvantages, or to present an alternative viewpoint in a discussion.
Often paired with 他方では or used alone to present one side of an argument. Can be used in the structure 一方では…、他方では… (on one hand…, on the other hand…).
一方では賛成の声が多いが、他方では反対意見も根強い。
On one hand, there are many voices in favor, but on the other hand, opposition is also persistent.
Literally 'conversely' or 'on the contrary'. Used to introduce an opposing idea or an unexpected flip side. More casual than 一方で.
都会は便利だけど、逆にストレスも多い。
Cities are convenient, but on the other hand, there's also a lot of stress.
To change the subject or introduce a related but distinct point, often in conversation.
Means 'that aside' or 'on another note'. Used to acknowledge the previous point but move on to a different topic. Very natural in spoken Japanese.
その話は面白かったね。それはそれとして、明日の予定はどうする？
That story was interesting. On the other hand, what should we do about tomorrow's plans?
Literally 'the topic changes, but'. A polite way to shift to a new subject. Common in meetings or presentations.
以上が報告です。話は変わりますが、来週の会議についてお知らせします。
That concludes my report. On the other hand, I'd like to inform you about next week's meeting.
The phrase 'on the other hand' is often translated literally as もう一方の手では, but this is never used in Japanese. Always use the patterns above depending on context.
一方で is neutral and factual, suitable for writing and formal speech. 逆に implies a reversal or unexpected contrast, and is more common in casual conversation.