largely the latter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "largely the latter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a previously mentioned option or choice, indicating that the latter option is the one that applies more significantly or predominantly. Example: "In the debate about renewable energy sources, many experts believe that solar power is largely the latter option, as it offers more sustainable benefits compared to fossil fuels."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Smaller towns were largely the latter, with perhaps a single stone mosque or some stone tombs.

American Anthropologist

If largely the latter, the actual burden of chemotherapy-induced FN may be closer to the total costs of the index event plus any additional follow-on care that is directly related to the initial event--most of which, presumably, would occur in the same cycle.

BMC Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Unfortunately, "The First Emperor" falls largely into the latter category.

The New Yorker

It is possible he celebrated the postponement more than his victory the next day, because the former largely made the latter possible.

The New York Times - Sports

The passengers flocking to Fenchurch Street station every evening fall largely into the latter category, having come to loathe their long journey home to Essex.

The Guardian

America is more productive than the euro zone and Japan largely because the latter both have a lousy record in services (too many rules and not enough competition).

The Economist

It was largely for the latter reason that demand for Ford's SUV's had dropped 4% in 2005, the company reported around the time of Fields' speech.

Forbes

However, the new regulation largely relieves the latter of responsibility for implementing the system transformation; RES operators tend to bear growing electricity price risks [42,56], while the less frequent occurrence of negative prices benefits conventional power plant operators, who can avoid the costs of investing in flexibilisation.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Facing a choice between holding a press conference to condemn the attack and immediately moving to prepare know-your-rights trainings, local mosque leaders largely chose the latter, according to 26-year-old Kensington native and community organizer Shahana Hanif.

Vice

There is an ineffable sense that, at Pixar, what used to be is no longer — that to achieve its success, the company, long a bulwark of charm and originality, has retained the former but largely tossed the latter.

Los Angeles Times

Using the retreating South Korean troops to cover their movements, the Chinese had infiltrated the brigade position in the initial stages of the battle, penetrating between A and B Companies, 3 RAR astride the road, and largely surrounding the latter before moving into the rear positions.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "largely the latter", ensure that the two options being compared are clearly defined in the preceding context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "largely the latter" when the distinction between the two options is not significant, or when the former option also plays a substantial role. This ensures accuracy and avoids misrepresenting the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "largely the latter" functions as a discourse marker, indicating a preference or emphasis on the second of two previously mentioned options. Ludwig confirms its correctness in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "largely the latter" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the second of two previously mentioned options. Ludwig indicates that its use is correct and understandable. Although not very common, it is found in various contexts, including science and news media. When using this phrase, ensure that the options are clear and well-defined. For alternatives, consider phrases such as "mostly the latter" or "primarily the latter" to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mostly the latter

Replaces "largely" with "mostly", indicating a slight difference in the degree of prevalence.

primarily the latter

Substitutes "largely" with "primarily", emphasizing the main or principal choice.

mainly the latter

Replaces "largely" with "mainly", suggesting the most important or common aspect.

predominantly the latter

Replaces "largely" with "predominantly", indicating a stronger degree of prevalence or dominance.

the latter is more often the case

Rephrases the entire expression to focus on the frequency of the latter option.

the latter is generally true

Replaces "largely" with "generally", emphasizing the overall truth of the latter option.

the latter is, for the most part, true

Introduces a qualifier, emphasizing that while exceptions may occur, the latter option is typically the case.

the latter is the more significant factor

Highlights that the "latter" has major impact.

the latter is the prevailing trend

Indicates "latter" represents current direction or movement.

the latter is more typical

Shows 'latter' represents something that is usual or expected.

FAQs

How can I use "largely the latter" in a sentence?

Use "largely the latter" when you've presented two options and want to emphasize that the second option is more applicable or dominant. For example, "The company's profits came from two sources: domestic and international sales; largely the latter contributed to the overall success."

What's a simple substitute for "largely the latter"?

Alternatives include /s/mostly+the+latter , /s/primarily+the+latter , or /s/mainly+the+latter. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always clear what "the former" and "the latter" refer to?

To ensure clarity, always make sure the two items you are referencing are explicitly mentioned in the preceding sentence or paragraph. Ambiguity can confuse your reader.

Can "largely the latter" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "largely the latter" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider the context and ensure it maintains the tone and style of your writing. If it seems too informal, consider replacing it with /s/predominantly+the+latter or /s/primarily+the+latter.