on the fourth hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the fourth hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in discussions or arguments to introduce an additional perspective or point, often after "on the one hand," "on the second hand," and "on the third hand." Example: "On the fourth hand, we must consider the long-term effects of our decision on the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

On the fourth hand Ruffin got aggressive.

Forbes

And on the fourth hand (I know, I know!) the budget situation is deteriorating from dreadful to unimaginable.

Forbes

On the fourth hand, no cards are passed.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This can be attributed to short chain formation, which are hard to precipitate on one hand and to incorporate on the formed particles, on the second hand.

Colloid and Polymer Science

On the second hand, I have mah-jongg.

The New York Times - Arts

I don't want to win on the seventh hand because I get lucky.

The New York Times - Sports

It costs as little as 100-200 USD on the second hand," Breivik noted).

The New Yorker

Mr. Cohen kept his eye on the second hand of his wristwatch along the sideline.

The New York Times - Sports

And on the third hand, he advocated for a course of action that was at last implemented in the so-called "surge," and with some success.

The New York Times

On the third hand, those of us who had to explain "The Chronicles of Narnia" to our children will be grateful that Harry isn't Parsifal.

The New York Times - Books

On the fifth hand, Siebel made his move.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the fourth hand" sparingly, primarily when you've already established a pattern of enumeration with "on the one hand", "on the second hand", and "on the third hand" to maintain consistency.

Common error

Avoid using "on the fourth hand" if the discussion doesn't logically require or benefit from a multi-faceted, enumerated structure. Overuse can sound stilted or unnatural; opt for simpler transitional phrases if the flow isn't genuinely enhanced by the framework.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the fourth hand" functions as an enumerative adverbial phrase. It is used to introduce the fourth point or consideration in a discussion, argument, or list. As Ludwig AI points out, it's often part of a structured series that begins with "on the one hand".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the fourth hand" is an adverbial phrase used to introduce a fourth point in a structured argument, often following "on the one hand", "on the second hand", and "on the third hand". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its utility in adding a perspective. While grammatically sound, it is relatively rare and most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, with usage leaning towards a neutral, slightly formal tone. When writing, make sure you have established a logical multi-faceted discussion before employing this construct; overuse or misuse might make your content appear stilted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fourthly

This is a single-word adverb that directly indicates the fourth point in a sequence.

in the fourth place

This alternative is more formal and explicit about enumerating points.

as a fourth point

This phrase clearly introduces the subsequent item as a distinct argument.

on another note

This phrase shifts the topic slightly while still contributing to the overall discussion.

furthermore

Indicates an addition to a previous statement. Less specific to a sequential argument.

additionally

A general way to add more information or another point, without specific enumeration.

moreover

Similar to 'furthermore', adding extra detail without denoting that is the fourth element

besides

This option adds an extra consideration to an argument.

in addition

Simple way to supplement information or considerations.

from another angle

Implies a different perspective or view on the matter at hand.

FAQs

How is "on the fourth hand" typically used in writing?

It's usually used to introduce a fourth point or perspective in an argument or discussion, often following "on the one hand", "on the second hand", and "on the third hand". It helps to structure complex arguments by presenting distinct viewpoints.

What are some alternatives to using "on the fourth hand" in an essay?

Instead of "on the fourth hand", you could use phrases like "fourthly", "in the fourth place", or "as a fourth point" to introduce another perspective.

Is it grammatically correct to use "on the fourth hand"?

Yes, "on the fourth hand" is grammatically correct, particularly when used in a series of arguments or perspectives that start with "on the one hand", "on the second hand", and "on the third hand".

When is it appropriate to use "on the fourth hand" versus a simpler transition?

Use "on the fourth hand" when you're deliberately structuring an argument with multiple, distinct perspectives. If the argument is simpler, transitional words such as "furthermore", "additionally", or "moreover" might be more appropriate.