the latter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the latter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the second of two previously mentioned items or options. Example: "I had to choose between going to the beach or staying home; I chose the latter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The latter.

The Guardian

The latter, surely.

The New Yorker

She chose the latter.

The Economist

Most choose the latter".

The New Yorker

It's the latter.

The New Yorker

We'll have the latter.

Independent

It was the latter.

The New York Times - Magazine

The latter, we feel.

The Economist

I'm guessing the latter.

The New York Times

I fear the latter.

BBC

BMW chose the latter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure there are indeed only two items being referred to, as "the latter" is specifically for the second of two. If there are more than two, consider using "the last" or rephrasing to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the latter" when referring to something that isn't the second of only two previously mentioned items. This creates confusion for the reader. If you need to refer to the third, fourth, or last item in a list, use ordinal numbers (third, fourth) or "the last".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the latter" functions as a determiner that introduces a noun phrase, referring specifically to the second of two previously mentioned items or options. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it serves as a concise way to avoid repetition and maintain clarity in writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the latter" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase in English used to refer to the second of two previously mentioned items. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its neutral register and widespread usage across various contexts, especially in News & Media sources, make it a versatile choice for writers. Just remember to use it only when referring to the second of exactly two items to avoid ambiguity. When in doubt, alternatives like "the second option" may offer greater clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the second option

Replaces "latter" with a more explicit reference to the position in a sequence.

the second choice

Emphasizes the selection aspect of the second item.

the latter case

Adds specificity by indicating that "the latter" refers to a situation or circumstance.

the second alternative

Synonymous with "the second option" but uses 'alternative' for a slightly different nuance.

the second item

Highlights that "the latter" refers to a specific object or element in a list.

the concluding point

Focuses on the aspect of being the final or last mentioned item.

the subsequent one

Highlights the order of items but can be used in contexts beyond just two items.

the remaining one

Suitable when only two options exist, and the first has been eliminated or disregarded.

the other

Simple and direct way to refer to the second of two, implying a binary choice.

this last

Emphasizes that it is the most recent or final option mentioned

FAQs

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

Use "the latter" to refer to the second of two items or options that you've already mentioned. For example, "I prefer tea or coffee; I always choose "the latter"."

What is the difference between "the former" and "the latter"?

"The former" refers to the first of two things that you have mentioned, while "the latter" refers to the second. They are used together to avoid repeating the nouns.

When is it appropriate to use "the latter" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to concisely refer back to the second of two items that have just been discussed or presented as choices. It improves flow and avoids repetition, but be cautious it only makes sense if you have mentioned two things before, and not more than two.

What are some alternatives to using "the latter" in a sentence?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "the second option", "the second choice", or "the last mentioned". The best choice depends on the specific context of your sentence.