Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| andererseits | [ˈandəʁɐzaɪ̯t͡s] (narrow) |
| auf der anderen Seite | |
| hingegen | [hɪnˈɡeːɡŋ̩] (narrow) [hɪnˈɡeːɡən] (narrow) |
| zum anderen |
These expressions are used to present a different point of view or to contrast two different facts or entities.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase auf der anderen Seite is a literal translation of 'on the other side', but it is used idiomatically to mean 'on the other hand'.
Which one should you use?
The forms differ in how they structure a comparison. Andererseits is typically used to introduce a new perspective or a counter-argument. In contrast, hingegen is used to contrast two specific subjects or entities within a sentence. Additionally, hingegen is a post-positional adverb, whereas andererseits is often used at the beginning of a clause.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adverb, andererseits typically occupies the first position in a clause, which triggers inversion. This means the verb must come immediately after it. Unlike this, hingegen usually follows the subject or the verb it is modifying.
Did you know?
- The preposition auf in the phrase auf der anderen Seite is a cognate of the English word 'up', stemming from the Proto-Germanic word *upp.
- German speakers often pair andererseits with the word einerseits meaning 'on the one hand' to create a balanced logical structure in a sentence.
- The word hingegen can move around the sentence much more freely than andererseits, appearing even at the very end of a clause for emphasis.
Examples in context
- Andererseits gibt es einige Nachteile.On the other hand, there are some disadvantages.This sentence shows how to use andererseits to introduce disadvantages.Tatoeba #4429883 by Dani6187, translation #886271 by CM
- Du bist jung, ich hingegen bin sehr alt.You are young. I, on the other hand, am very old.This sentence shows how to use hingegen to contrast two subjects.Tatoeba #670398 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1548164 by CM
- Du hast viel Geld, ich hingegen habe keins.You have a lot of money, I, on the other hand, have none.This sentence demonstrates using hingegen to contrast two subjects regarding their possessions.Tatoeba #12626644 by Waldelfe, translation #13760876 by araneo
- Ich möchte früher aufhören zu arbeiten, um mehr Zeit mit meiner Familie zu verbringen. Andererseits würde dies mein finanzielles Einkommen beeinflussen.I want to stop working earlier to spend more time with my family. On the other hand, this would affect my financial income.
- Ich würde gerne zu dem Konzert gehen. Auf der anderen Seite bin ich ziemlich müde und könnte eine Pause gebrauchen.I would love to go to the concert. On the other hand, I am quite tired and could use a break.
- Das neue Restaurant hat eine beeindruckende Speisekarte. Allerdings sind die Preise etwas höher.The new restaurant has an impressive menu. However, the prices are slightly higher.
- 12 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sarah and Julian are discussing whether to go for a hike.
- SarahDas Wetter ist heute wirklich schön.The weather is really beautiful today.
- JulianAndererseits ist der Weg sehr steil.On the other hand, the path is very steep.
- SarahDas stimmt, aber die Aussicht ist toll.That's true, but the view is great.
- JulianVielleicht bleibe ich doch lieber zu Hause.Maybe I'd rather just stay at home.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “on the other hand” translations and entries andererseits, auf der anderen Seite, hingegen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Seite, andererseits, auf, der, zum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
