Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
select the latter
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "select the latter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when presenting two or more options and indicating a preference for the second option mentioned. Example: "You can choose between a car or a bicycle; I would recommend you select the latter for a healthier lifestyle."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
11 human-written examples
For example, if the concept that the user wishes to include is "computer" and if there is the concept "notebook" in the CYC base, the user can select the latter and be guided through a process of questions and answers aimed to acquiring common-sense facts for "computer" based on what is already known about "notebook".
We select the latter measure because it is very different from citation-based metrics, while still capturing proximity.
Science
Recent experimental studies have demonstrated that cleaners forage more on mucus and monogenea flatworms than other prey items and that they will select the latter on a size-ranked basis [29], [37].
Science
Notwithstanding that arterial and venous derived endothelial cells differ from HUVECs for anatomical, functional, and transcriptional identities, we select the latter in our experimental setting [19], [20] since they are commonly employed in experimental protocols which investigate the effects of insulin on endothelial functions [21] and on gene expression [16].
Science
From a viewpoint of evolutionarily close relation of A. oryzae and A. sojae with pathogenic Aspergillus species, it is vital to distinguish between aflatoxin productive and non-productive moulds and to select the latter for industrial use.
Science
RM1 diet, which is substantially different in its makeup from diets A E, produces a growth curve consistent with its ME being between that of diets A and B. Faced with the choice between RM1 diet and IF solution, rats select the latter, the strength of the preference being in proportion to the strength of the IF solution (experiment 2, Table 3).
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
Under the experimental conditions selected, the latter samples are shown to be homogeneous in composition, irrespective of the monomer feed composition.
Science
To avoid the effect of the output impedance of current cells on the current delivered to the load impedance, we selected the latter which is much smaller than the former.
Science
In this paper, we examine some of the underlying reasons behind this difference in terminology, and we show how this discrepancy might be exploited, in order to build a computer system which automatically selects the latter type of "Theorems" from amongst the former.
In choosing the top ten all-time games for the Commodore 64, Retro Gamer stated that Maniac Mansion and Zak McKracken were equally good, but it selected the latter because of Maniac Mansions prominence.
Wiki
For the present study, we selected the latter approach.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "select the latter", ensure that the two options being compared are clearly defined and easily understood by the reader or listener.
Common error
Avoid using "select the latter" if the context doesn't clearly establish two distinct options. Ensure the "latter" has a defined antecedent to prevent confusion.
Source & Trust
79%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "select the latter" functions as a directive or recommendation, guiding the audience to choose the second option from two previously mentioned choices. This is supported by Ludwig's examples which show direct selection in varied contexts.
Frequent in
Science
70%
Wiki
30%
News & Media
0%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "select the latter" is a grammatically correct and understandable English expression used to recommend the second of two previously mentioned options. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness. While not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in scientific and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the two options are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "choose the latter" or "opt for the latter" can provide similar meaning with slight variations in formality. Remember to use this phrase judiciously for clear and effective communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
choose the latter
Simple synonym using "choose" instead of "select".
opt for the latter
Replaces "select" with "opt for", adding a slightly more decisive tone.
prefer the latter
Emphasizes preference rather than direct selection.
pick the latter
Informal synonym using "pick" instead of "select".
go with the latter
Suggests agreement with the second option.
favor the latter
Implies a positive bias towards the second option.
decide on the latter
Highlights the decision-making process in choosing the latter option.
take the latter
More direct, implying acceptance of the second option.
embrace the latter
Suggests a strong and enthusiastic acceptance of the second option.
adopt the latter
Implies a more formal and deliberate acceptance of the second option.
FAQs
How do I use "select the latter" in a sentence?
Use "select the latter" when you want to indicate choosing the second of two options already mentioned. For example: "You can choose between option A and option B; I would advise you to "select the latter"."
What's an alternative to "select the latter"?
Alternatives include "choose the latter", "opt for the latter", or "prefer the latter". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it more formal to say "select the latter" or "choose the latter"?
"Select" is generally considered slightly more formal than "choose". Therefore, ""select the latter"" tends to be used in more formal or technical contexts.
When is it inappropriate to use "select the latter"?
Avoid using ""select the latter"" if you haven't clearly introduced two distinct options or if the context makes it unclear which option is being referred to as "the latter".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
79%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested