par contre
B1on the other hand, however
Very popular in spoken French to introduce a contrasting point. Some purists consider it incorrect and prefer 'en revanche', but it's widely used in everyday conversation.
Usage
Used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a contrast. More common in spoken French than written, especially in informal contexts.
Examples
J'aime le thé. Par contre, je n'aime pas le café.
I like tea. On the other hand, I don't like coffee.
Context: Contrasting preferences
Il fait beau aujourd'hui. Par contre, demain il va pleuvoir.
It's nice today. However, tomorrow it will rain.
Context: Weather contrast
Le film était long. Par contre, il était intéressant.
The movie was long. On the other hand, it was interesting.
Context: Balancing criticism with praise
Synonyms & Alternatives
Important Notes
Extremely common in spoken French but some consider it grammatically incorrect. Use 'en revanche' in formal writing.