latter stages

USAGE SUMMARY

"latter stages" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to the later or final parts of something. Example: In the latter stages of the project, the team encountered unexpected challenges that threatened to delay the deadline.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Their defence, too, creaked alarmingly through those latter stages.

The Guardian - Sport

I don't believe they can reach the latter stages".

The Guardian - Sport

Mercifully there was incident in the latter stages.

The Guardian - Sport

In the latter stages I felt we'd got it right.

Independent

In the latter stages, a sentimentality creeps in.

Independent

Palace heaved to break them down in the latter stages here but were still thwarted.

The Guardian - Sport

The government hired a new team of lawyers in the latter stages of the dispute.

The Guardian

The latter stages of Radcliffe's career have been wrecked by injury.

The Guardian - Sport

There, too, you had someone who could have left, at least during the latter stages.

The New York Times

Naturally, Haitian hopes of reaching the latter stages in their first ever Copa are faint.

The Guardian - Sport

The St Johnstone goal, which made the latter stages interesting, came out of the blue.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid ambiguity, ensure that the context makes it clear what the "latter stages" are in relation to. For example, "In the latter stages of the project, communication became crucial."

Common error

Avoid confusing "latter stages" with "later stages". "Latter" refers to the second of two items or options previously mentioned, while "latter stages" refers to the final part of something. To clarify, if you mean something happened at a subsequent time, use “later”.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "latter stages" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adverbial to specify when something occurs within a sequence or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "latter stages" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate the final part of an event, process, or period. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is typically used as an adverbial. Predominantly found in news and media, it helps establish a clear temporal reference, making it a versatile choice across various contexts. While it's important to avoid confusion with similar terms like "later stages", understanding its proper application enhances clarity in writing. Consider alternative phrases such as "final phase" or "closing period" for variety. Therefore, using "latter stages" effectively ensures that the reader understands the timing of events within a broader context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final phase

Focuses on the last defined segment of a process, emphasizing completion.

closing period

Highlights the end time or duration of something, indicating termination.

terminal phase

Implies the ultimate and concluding part, especially in contexts like medical conditions or projects.

end segment

Stresses the final portion or section of a sequence.

concluding chapters

Emphasizes the final parts of a narrative or story, suggesting resolution.

waning moments

Highlights the diminishing or fading aspects of a period, indicating its end.

final stretch

Suggests the last part of a journey or effort, often implying a push to finish.

endgame

Indicates the final stage of a plan or negotiation, especially when critical decisions are made.

twilight years

Refers to the final years of someone's life or career, often associated with reflection or decline.

last chapter

Signifies the concluding part of a life, story, or series of events, bringing closure.

FAQs

How can I use "latter stages" in a sentence?

You can use "latter stages" to refer to the final part of an event or process. For example, "In the "latter stages" of the game, the team increased their defensive efforts".

What are some alternatives to saying "latter stages"?

Alternatives to "latter stages" include "final phase", "closing period", or "terminal phase", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "later stages" instead of "latter stages"?

While "later stages" can refer to stages that occur at a subsequent time, "latter stages" specifically denotes the final stages of something. Use "later" when indicating timing and "latter" when indicating sequence or position.

What's the difference between "initial stages" and "latter stages"?

"Initial stages" refers to the beginning of a process or event, while "latter stages" refers to the end. They represent opposite ends of a timeline.