like the latter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like the latter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer back to the second of two previously mentioned items or examples. Example: "I prefer the two options, but I find myself leaning towards the latter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They like cars, they dig girls, it appears many just don't like the latter behind the wheel of the former.

The Guardian - Sport

In 2016, a tie would likely look more like the latter than the former.

The Guardian

Developing countries are likely to be dealing with firms more like the latter than the former.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

To some, it seems like the latter.

The New York Times

Like the latter, he moved into Olympic administration.

The Guardian

The Mets feel an awful lot like the latter.

The Guardian - Sport

Today, it seems like the latter scenario is prevailing.

The New Yorker

Like the latter they are often unseen and seldom intelligible at ground level.

Journal of Archaeological Science

Like the latter movie, The Downslope takes an anti-war approach.

The Guardian - Film

Hard to know for sure, but it certainly reads like the latter.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The former have to match their liabilities which are bond-like; the latter need reserves.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that there are indeed two items previously mentioned to avoid ambiguity when using "like the latter". Clearly establish what 'the former' and 'the latter' refer to.

Common error

Avoid using "like the latter" if there isn't a clearly defined 'former' item. It can confuse readers if they cannot easily identify the two items being compared.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like the latter" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to draw a comparison or analogy to the second of two previously mentioned items. Ludwig confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like the latter" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed prepositional phrase used to draw comparisons with the second of two previously mentioned items. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia, making it a versatile tool for effective communication. When using "like the latter", ensure that the 'former' and 'latter' are clearly defined to avoid any ambiguity. Remember to consider alternatives such as ""similar to the latter"" or "akin to the latter" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to the latter

Replaces 'like' with 'similar to', maintaining the comparison to the second item.

much like the latter

Adds emphasis to the similarity being drawn with the second item.

akin to the latter

Uses 'akin to' for a slightly more formal comparison, suggesting a resemblance.

resembling the latter

Emphasizes the similarity in appearance or nature to the second item.

comparable to the latter

Indicates that the item being discussed can be compared to the second item.

in the same vein as the latter

Indicates a similarity in style or approach to the second item.

in line with the latter

Suggests an alignment or agreement with the second item's characteristics.

paralleling the latter

Highlights a parallel or correspondence to the second item.

corresponding to the latter

Suggests a direct relationship or match with the second item.

on par with the latter

Implies an equivalence or similarity in quality or status to the second item.

FAQs

How do you use "like the latter" in a sentence?

The phrase "like the latter" is used to draw a comparison with the second of two things previously mentioned. For example: "We considered two options: investing in stocks or bonds. We decided to go with something "similar to the latter", focusing on long-term stability".

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

"Like the former" refers to the first item of two items that were mentioned before, while "like the latter" refers to the second item.

What can I say instead of "like the latter"?

You can use alternatives such as ""similar to the latter"", "akin to the latter", or "resembling the latter" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "like the latter" in formal writing?

Yes, "like the latter" is acceptable in formal writing, as it is a clear and concise way to refer back to the second of two items. However, ensure that the context makes it unambiguous.