pick the latter

USAGE SUMMARY

"pick the latter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that the reader select the second of two choices. For example, "Do you want to read a book or watch a movie? I'd suggest you pick the latter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

They'll pick the latter, as car manufacturers are learning.

The New York Times

If you're choosing between thunder and reinvention, you pick the latter, obviously.

The New Yorker

We pick the latter and head down the monster's tongue, into his belly.

Independent

If forced to choose between acting and directing, he finally concluded, after some thought, that he'd pick the latter.

The New York Times

If I have to choose between looking perfectly groomed and not being horribly tired, I pick the latter every time.

Independent

They pick the latter, which, with its revolving bed and planetary décor, is a tacky, dated vision of a future that will never be.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

(She picks the latter).

The New York Times - Arts

The reformists picked the latter.

The Guardian

Who was picking the latter?

The Guardian

I picked the latter, because Buddy MacMaster, 75, was performing.

The New York Times - Travel

By picking the latter option, she could ensure that her story survived the transition.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pick the latter", ensure the two options being compared are clearly established in the preceding context to avoid ambiguity. This makes your writing more precise and easier to understand.

Common error

Avoid using "pick the latter" when more than two options have been presented. The term "latter" specifically refers to the second of two items; for more than two, use "last" or rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pick the latter" functions as a directive phrase, indicating a selection from two presented choices. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests selecting the second of two options. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, from personal preferences to significant decisions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pick the latter" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a choice between two options, favoring the second. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not overly common, it appears frequently in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that only two clear choices have been presented to avoid ambiguity. Remember, alternatives like "choose the second option" or "opt for the latter" offer similar meanings. Always ensure the context supports the use of "latter", which refers specifically to the second of only two items.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

choose the second option

Replaces "latter" with a more explicit description, clarifying the choice.

opt for the latter

Uses "opt for" as a synonym for "pick", suggesting a deliberate choice.

select the second

Similar to "choose the second option", providing direct clarity.

prefer the latter

Indicates a preference rather than simply a selection.

gravitate towards the latter

Suggests a natural inclination or tendency toward the second option.

go with the latter

More informal way to express choosing the second option.

decide on the latter

Emphasizes the decision-making process.

favor the latter

Expresses a stronger positive bias towards the second option.

embrace the latter

Implies a more enthusiastic acceptance of the second option.

adopt the latter

Suggests integrating the second option into one's actions or beliefs.

FAQs

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

Use "pick the latter" when presenting two distinct choices and indicating preference for the second one. For instance, "Given the choice between fame and fortune, many would "pick the latter"."

What's a good substitute for "pick the latter"?

Alternatives include "choose the second option", "opt for the latter", or simply "select the second" depending on the level of formality required.

Is it correct to use "pick the latter" if there are more than two options?

No, "pick the latter" implies a choice between only two options. If there are more than two options, consider using "pick the last" or rephrasing to specify which option you are selecting.

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

"Pick the former" refers to choosing the first of two options, whereas "pick the latter" refers to choosing the second. Ensure you use the correct term to accurately reflect your intended meaning.