for the latter

USAGE SUMMARY

'for the latter' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when referring to something that has already been mentioned in the conversation or written piece. For example, "He could either stay in the city or move to the suburbs; for the latter, he would need to find an affordable place to live."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We opted for the latter.

The New York Times - Travel

Manjoo plumps for the latter.

Independent

I vote for the latter.

The New York Times

Go for the latter.

The Guardian - Travel

It also speaks for the latter.

Independent

Federal prosecutors opted for the latter explanation.

The New York Times

Bourne here opts for the latter.

The New Yorker

For the latter, see horse racing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The prospects are better for the latter.

The New York Times

Mine was famous for the latter.

The New York Times

We'll go for the latter.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for the latter", ensure that the two options you are referencing are clearly defined and easily identifiable in the preceding text to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "for the latter" if there isn't a clearly defined pair of options immediately preceding it. This can confuse the reader and obscure your intended meaning. Instead, rephrase to be more explicit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the latter" functions as an anaphoric expression, specifically a determiner phrase, used to refer back to the second of two items previously mentioned in the text or conversation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for the latter" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to reference the second of two previously mentioned items. Ludwig AI underlines that the phrase is typically used to maintain conciseness and avoid repetition, indicating a specific selection or focus. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears across science, encyclopedias, wiki, and business sources, thus exhibiting a fairly neutral to formal register. To use it correctly, ensure there are two clearly defined options in the preceding text. Alternatives include "regarding the second option" and "with respect to the latter".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding the second option

This alternative directly specifies that the reference is to the second of two options.

with respect to the latter

This is a more formal version of the original phrase, suitable for academic or professional writing.

concerning the latter

Similar to 'with respect to the latter' but slightly less formal.

in reference to the latter

This phrase explicitly indicates that a reference is being made.

as to the latter

This option is a concise way to introduce a point about the second item.

on the subject of the latter

This alternative emphasizes the topic being discussed.

in terms of the latter

This phrase focuses on specific aspects of the second item.

the second alternative

This option is a direct and unambiguous way of referring to the second choice.

the second of these

This alternative is useful when referring to a previously mentioned list or set of items.

the latter choice

This version explicitly includes the word 'choice' making the intention clear.

FAQs

How do I use "for the latter" in a sentence?

"For the latter" is used to refer back to the second of two things previously mentioned. For example: "The company considered both cost reduction and market expansion. They opted "for the latter", believing it would yield greater long-term benefits."

What are some alternatives to using "for the latter"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "regarding the second option", "concerning the latter", or "with respect to the latter" to achieve a similar meaning. These alternatives offer subtle variations in formality and emphasis.

Is it ever incorrect to use "for the latter"?

Yes, it's incorrect to use "for the latter" if you haven't clearly established two distinct options in the preceding text. The phrase requires a clear antecedent to avoid ambiguity. Ensure that two clear options exist before employing this phrase.

What's the difference between "for the former" and "for the latter"?

"For the former" refers to the first of two things that have been mentioned, while "for the latter" refers to the second. Using the correct phrase is crucial for maintaining clarity and avoiding misinterpretation of your intended meaning.