mặt khác

Một mặt, chiếc xe này rất tiết kiệm nhiên liệu, mặt khác, nó không được thoải mái lắm.

Definition

Conjunction / Transitional Phrase:
- On the other hand: Used to introduce a contrasting point, idea, or perspective that differs from or balances the one just mentioned.
- Furthermore / Moreover: Used to add another point or argument that supports the same general idea, often indicating an additional, related consideration.

Usage Examples

Introducing a contrast:
- Việc này rẻ. Mặt khác, nó không bền. (This is cheap. On the other hand, it is not durable.)
- Anh ấy rất thông minh. Mặt khác, anh ấy đôi khi thiếu kiên nhẫn. (He is very intelligent. On the other hand, he sometimes lacks patience.)
Adding a supporting point:
- Dự án này khả thi về mặt tài chính. Mặt khác, nó cũng có lợi cho cộng đồng. (This project is financially feasible. Furthermore, it is also beneficial for the community.)

Advanced Usage

In formal writing and argumentation, "mặt khác" is a crucial transitional device to structure complex ideas, showing either contrast or addition.
It often pairs with "một mặt" (on one hand) to explicitly set up a two-sided argument.
- Một mặt, chúng ta cần phát triển kinh tế. Mặt khác, chúng ta phải bảo vệ môi trường. (On one hand, we need to develop the economy. On the other hand, we must protect the environment.)

Variants and Related Words

Ngoài ra (conj): Besides, in addition. (Used more for simple addition without a strong contrastive sense.)
Tuy nhiên (conj): However, nevertheless. (Used to introduce a stronger contrast or contradiction.)
Hơn nữa (conj): Moreover, furthermore. (Used to add a reinforcing point.)

Synonyms

Related Phrases

Một mặt... mặt khác...: On one hand... on the other hand... (A common paired structure for presenting two sides of an issue.)
Ở khía cạnh khác: From another angle / On another note. (A less common variant for introducing a different perspective.)