[Vocabulary] The difference between 'on one hand' and 'on the one hand'

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Maggiedoudou

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Oct 25, 2014
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Student or Learner
Native Language
Chinese
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China
Current Location
China
Dear teachers,
Two days ago, I read a composition of one of my classmates recommended by our English teacher for reference. However, I was really confused by such an expression as ‘on one hand’ in her writing while I usually use ‘on the one hand’ in mine.
My dictionary tells me the two phrases share the same meaning: from one point of view. However, my mind is in a fog about the real difference between them. Meanwhile, I find it difficult for me to get any further proper explanations concerned in my reference books.
Therefore, I would like to ask about which one of them is the only correct in English or is preferable to native speakers of English.
I would be very appreciated if you can do me a favor. Thanks a lot.
Yours sincerely,
Maggie
 

probus

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Jan 7, 2011
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Retired English Teacher
Native Language
English
Home Country
Canada
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Canada
In my opinion there is no difference.
 

emsr2d2

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Joined
Jul 28, 2009
Member Type
English Teacher
Native Language
British English
Home Country
UK
Current Location
UK
These repetitive posts about "on the one hand" are being closed by moderators. There appears to be an entire English class on the forum at the moment, all of whom are asking the same question without checking to see if any of their classmates have asked it already.
 
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