The other and another

Question

1) We can handle this issue one way or the other.

2) We can handle this issue one way or another.

3) On one hand, he can do this, on the other hand he can study.

4) On one hand , he can do this , on another hand he can study.

Which one is correct? what are the differences between " the other " and " another" in the above context.

thanks alot

AlpheccaStars · Accepted Answer

Another is litterally - an other. An, the indefinite article, means "any" as opposed to "the" which is the definite article, and means one specific.

Another refers to some other choice; and imples more than one.
The other implies that it is the second choice of only 2.

1) We can handle this issue one way or the other.>> There are 2 ways to handle the issue.

2) We can handle this issue one way or another.>> There are 2 ways or more to handle the issue. You don't know all the ways yet.

3) On one hand, he can do this, on the other hand he can study.>> There are only 2 choices - "this" or "study". Imagine you hold a peice of paper in one hand that says "this" and a paper in your other hand that says "study".

4) On one hand , he can do this , on another hand he can study.>> Not correct unless you are an Indian *** such as Shiva or Ganesh who have at least 4 arms.

The other and another

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