Par contre

Expression: Par contre

Pronunciation: [par co(n)tr]

Meaning: on the other hand, whereas, but

Literal translation: by against

Register: normal

Notes: The French expression par contre is used to contrast two statements:

   Cet article est fascinant. Par contre, la grammaire est épouvantable.
   This article is fascinating. The grammar, on the other hand, is appalling.

   Si Clara est très sympa, par contre son mari est agaçant.
   Clara is really nice, whereas her husband is annoying.

French grammarians and dictionaries have argued about par contre for hundreds of years (see The great par contre debate). All but purists now generally agree that par contre is acceptable when there is a clear contrast between two ideas and the second one is negative, as in the above examples. However, they take a lesser view of par contre when it introduces a second statement which supports, compensates for, or adds information to the first. Many French speakers use par contre in this way, but generally speaking, it's better to reserve it for negative meanings, and instead use en revanche when the meaning is positive or neutral.

   J'ai oublié de faire mes devoirs. Par contre —> En revanche, il y avait un suppléant et il ne les a pas ramassés.
   I forgot to do my homework. But there was a substitute teacher and he didn't collect it.

When the two statements are not in opposition—that is, when you're really just in need of a filler or transition—something like mais is preferable.

   Tu ne dois pas venir avec nous. Par contre —> Mais est-ce que tu sais où sont mes clés ?
   You don't have to come with us. But do you know where my keys are?

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More

• Expressions with par
• Expressions with contre
• Most common French phrases

Page 2: The great par contre debate

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