latitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "latitude" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in reference to the geographic coordinate which specifies the north-south position of a point on the Earth's surface. For example: "The city of Miami has a latitude of 25.76 degrees North."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

More practical reasons suggest themselves for the success of Chilean wine: the central valleys boast rich alluvial soil, and the climate found between 28 and 38 degrees of latitude is perfect for the vines.

The Guardian - Travel

We are used to the idea that our location can be given by our latitude and longitude; that's what GPS gives us thanks to the satellite networks in the sky.

The Guardian

And of course, there were the banks: set free after the Big Bang to direct more money towards productive businesses, but instead using their newfound latitude to fuel ever bigger consumer bubbles.

The Guardian - Opinion

You are at the same latitude as Tunisia, so good weather is practically a given for much of the year.

The Guardian - Travel

The message from Darling was clear: it would be extremely helpful because Americans have more latitude in Scotland than England does.

The Guardian

Even if a deal strengthens Iran's doves, its hawks may either try to sabotage the deal or demand greater latitude to expand their influence abroad as the price of acquiescence.

The Economist

Under the state's all-or-nothing rules, the entire issue was thrown out.Prison officials have wide latitude to censor inmates' mail.

The Economist

But most importantly it was also flexible, allowing me the latitude to craft my academic experience.

The Economist

"We deal in poison, not venom," he says.But some security boffins argue that companies should be given more legal latitude to probe those servers.

The Economist

Since 2009, however, Texas has given school districts more latitude to pick between hard-copy textbooks approved by the board and other materials, such as those found online; and the state has little authority, in any case, to make school districts follow its guidelines.Sex education is a case in point.

The Economist

Yet Mr Musharraf never turned on all militant groups, some of which operated with a degree of latitude.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to geographic locations, always include both "latitude" and longitude for accurate positioning.

Common error

Avoid using "latitude" when you mean altitude. "Latitude" refers to north-south position on Earth, while altitude refers to height above sea level.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "latitude" is as a noun, referring to either a geographic coordinate or the extent of freedom. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in both contexts, confirming its dual role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "latitude" functions primarily as a noun, denoting either geographic position or the extent of freedom. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and diverse application, with a high frequency in news, science, and business contexts. While generally neutral in register, its meaning shifts based on context. To ensure accurate use, remember that "latitude" specifies north-south position, unlike altitude. The phrase enjoys widespread usage in authoritative sources like The Economist and The Guardian, affirming its reliability and versatility in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

angular distance from the equator

Emphasizes the measurement aspect of latitude relative to the equator.

degrees north or south

Focuses on the direction and unit of measurement for latitude.

geographical coordinate

Highlights latitude as part of a broader system of location.

scope of authority

Refers to the extent of power or control granted to someone.

range of options

Indicates the variety of choices available.

level of freedom

Focuses on the degree of independence or autonomy.

extent of discretion

Highlights the freedom to make decisions based on one's judgment.

measure of flexibility

Emphasizes the adaptability and allowance for change.

room for maneuvering

Indicates the space or opportunity to make adjustments or changes.

margin for error

Refers to the acceptable amount of deviation from a standard or correct value.

FAQs

How is "latitude" measured?

"Latitude" is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds, with 0° at the equator and 90°N or 90°S at the poles. It indicates the north-south position on Earth.

What is the difference between "latitude" and longitude?

"Latitude" measures the distance north or south of the equator, while longitude measures the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.

In what context can "latitude" mean freedom?

"Latitude" can refer to the amount of freedom or flexibility someone has in making decisions or acting, similar to phrases like "leeway" or "discretion".

What is the relation between "parallel of latitude" and latitude?

A "parallel of latitude" (or just parallel) is an imaginary circle connecting all locations with the same latitude value. For example, the 45th parallel north.