the latter pair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the latter pair" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the second of two items or groups mentioned previously in a discussion or text. Example: "In the comparison of apples and oranges, I prefer the latter pair for their sweetness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sport

Books

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Like Billy Elliot though, the latter pair found optimism where others have tended to find little.

The Guardian - Film

But what price either of the latter pair being a significant factor in a final?

The Guardian - Sport

The home country of the latter pair is right, but the right company is Tencent.

Harvard Business Review

It took the latter pair more than five years to get it on.

Independent

Instead it was thrashed out with Fox Sports, SBS and the Federal Government, with the latter pair providing $8 million.

The Guardian - Sport

All three movies breached the $1bn£706m6markark worldwide, with the latter pair both scoring more than $1.5bn.

The Guardian - Film

The latter pair had always wanted to run a bookshop, and regarded the experience as their honeymoon.

The Guardian - Books

The latter pair created something like the Krug style we know today, with the now obsolete label "Private Cuvée".

Independent

While the latter pair dance to a rising melody, the Sugar Plum Fairy's pas de deux with the Prince is dominated by a solemn descending motif.

The Guardian - Music

The latter pair were in spectacular form once again, leading from the first dive and never looking likely to relinquish that position.

The Guardian - Sport

The project also reunites the latter pair, who appeared together in Shane Black's action comedy Kiss Kiss Bang Bang in 2005.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the latter pair", ensure there are only two entities (people, objects, ideas) previously mentioned in the immediate context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the latter pair" when referring to more than two items. If there are three or more, consider using "the latter two" or rephrasing for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the latter pair" functions as a determiner phrase pointing to the second of two items or individuals previously mentioned. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a common way to refer back to something without repeating the specific names.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Sport

13%

Less common in

Books

3%

Film

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the latter pair" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase in English. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to refer to the second of two entities previously mentioned in a text or conversation. It is commonly employed in News & Media, Science, and Sports contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that only two items have been discussed to maintain clarity. Alternatives such as "the second group", "the latter two", and "those mentioned last" can be used for a change. The phrase has neutral formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the latter two

A straightforward substitution, maintaining the 'latter' concept but allowing for more than just a pair.

the second group

Refers to the second group, emphasizing the group aspect rather than a pair.

the second couple

Specifically refers to a couple, which can be used if the context involves relationships or partnerships.

the subsequent duo

Uses 'subsequent' to indicate following in time or order, and 'duo' for a pair, adding a slightly more formal tone.

the second set

Uses "set" to suggest a collection of items but still referencing the second of two options, is an alternative when pair is not intended as couple but as generic grouping of two elements.

the final couple

Highlights that the pair is the last one of a series of couples.

the previously mentioned two

Explicitly states that the individuals were mentioned before, emphasizing their prior introduction.

those mentioned last

A more descriptive alternative, focusing on the order of mention rather than a specific pairing.

the concluding duo

Emphasizes that the pair concludes a list or sequence.

the last of these

More general and can refer to the last items in a series, whether it's a pair or more.

FAQs

How is "the latter pair" used in a sentence?

You can use "the latter pair" to refer to the second of two items or people previously mentioned. For example: "We considered cats and dogs; the latter pair requires more care."

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

"The former pair" refers to the first of two items or people mentioned, while "the latter pair" refers to the second.

What are some alternatives to "the latter pair"?

Alternatives include "the second group", "the latter two", or "those mentioned last", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "the latter pair" in formal writing?

Yes, "the latter pair" is appropriate in formal writing. It provides a concise way to refer back to previously mentioned items. However, ensure clarity to avoid any ambiguity.