the latter are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the latter are" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you can use the phrase in this sentence: "Experts suggest different strategies for improving student achievement, and the latter are often more successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The latter are throat teeth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Only the latter are offshorable.

The Economist

The latter are perverts.

The Guardian - Opinion

The latter are called convergent neurons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The latter are what matter.

The Guardian - Opinion

The latter are pretty interesting.

The Guardian - Tech

How many of the latter are there?

The New Yorker

The latter are not united, however.

The Economist

The latter are all publicly financed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unfortunately, the latter are far fewer.

The New York Times

The latter are frequently guarded jealously.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the latter are", ensure there are only two items or groups previously mentioned to avoid ambiguity. If there are more than two, rephrase for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "the latter are" when referring to more than two items. This can confuse readers. Instead, specify which item you mean or use a more precise term like 'the last mentioned'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the latter are" functions as a cohesive device, specifically a demonstrative pronoun followed by a linking verb. It refers back to the second item or group in a previously mentioned pair, allowing for concise continuation of a discussion or argument. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the latter are" serves as a handy tool for referring to the second of two previously mentioned items or groups. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct, and its frequent appearance in news, science, and encyclopedia sources underlines its versatility. When using "the latter are", remember to be precise and aware of potential ambiguity. For better writing, consider synonyms like "the second group is", while avoiding common mistakes related to unclear antecedents. By understanding the subtleties, you can seamlessly integrate this phrase into your writing to boost coherence and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the second group is

Focuses specifically on the second group out of the two previously mentioned.

the latter consist of

Highlights the composition or elements of the latter item.

the second option involves

Emphasizes the actions or procedures related to the second choice.

these ones are

Uses a more direct and informal way to refer to the latter.

the last mentioned include

Refers to the last mentioned item and what it includes.

of these, the last one indicates

Emphasizes that the last element of some previous items indicates something.

the aforementioned second aspect concerns

Connects the second aspect that has been previously cited with a related idea.

conversely, the last ones entail

Emphasizes that the last elements entail or involve specific consequences.

in contrast, the second element shows

Uses “in contrast” to mark opposition and emphasizes that the second element shows something.

on the other hand, the last members expose

Highlights that last items reveals or makes something accessible.

FAQs

How do I use "the latter are" in a sentence?

Use "the latter are" to refer to the second of two items or groups previously mentioned. For example, "We discussed cats and dogs; "the latter are" more popular as pets".

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

Alternatives include "the second group is", "the "second option involves"", or simply rephrasing to be more specific.

Which is correct: "the latter is" or "the latter are"?

"The latter is" is used when referring to a singular item, while ""the latter are"" is used when referring to a plural group or items.

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

"The former" refers to the first of two things, while ""the latter are"" refers to the second. For example, "I prefer tea and coffee; the former is good in the morning, and the latter are nice in the afternoon".