Grammar
N2 connective

While / on the one hand 〜一方(で)

Meaning

"While ~", "on the one hand ~, on the other …" — two sides of one situation.

Formation

Notes

It places two coexisting facts side by side; they need not contradict, only balance. Keep it apart from 〜一方だ, which says a trend keeps moving in one direction.

Examples

He is a doctor, and at the same time known as a writer.

Breakdown
doctor while being writer also as is known

The city is convenient, but on the other hand rents are high.

Breakdown
city convenient on the other hand rent is expensive

While income is rising, spending is rising too.

Breakdown
income increase while expenditure is increasing

My older brother works hard, while my younger brother does nothing but play.

Breakdown
older brother works hard whereas younger brother does nothing but play

This job is demanding, but it is also rewarding.

Breakdown
job tough on the other hand sense of reward

⚠️ Often confused with

On the flip side 〜反面

"On the other hand ~" — two opposite qualities of the same thing.

Contrary to 〜に反して

"Contrary to ~", "against ~".

Far from 〜どころか

"Far from ~"; "let alone ~" — the reality is well beyond, or well short of, what was said.

Instead of / in exchange 〜かわりに

"Instead of ~"; "in exchange for ~"; "in return".