Learn English – What’s the difference between “on the contrary” and “in contrast”

differences

Is there any difference between these two phrases? Is there any context in which we only can use one rather than the other?

Best Answer

My understanding is that in contrast is used to, well, contrast two ideas, or compare their differences. This does not imply that either idea is wrong, just that the two are contrasted.

"Kimchi is a Korean dish that is popular among millions. In contrast, many complain that it tastes like rotten cabbage".

The viewpoints are contradictory, but neither is necessarily correct.

On the contrary, however, is used when the writer or speaker wishes to emphasize a negative claim - that is, he brings a viewpoint that is explicitly not accepted, and the phrase is used to bring the alternate option:

"Kimchi's flavor is not rotten and naueseous, as some claim. On the contrary, it is a delightfully playful dish".

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