the latter plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the latter plan" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the second of two previously mentioned options or plans. Example: "After considering both options, I believe the latter plan is more feasible for our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Richard chose the latter plan.

The New York Times

(A Sharon spokesman says that the prime minister prefers the latter plan).

The New York Times - Magazine

In the latter plan, jaws were manually fixed for tumors in lung and in mediastinal lymph node metastases, respectively.

Medical Dosimetry

Visiting Roosevelt again in the latter part of June 1942, Churchill at Hyde Park, New York, and in Washington, D.C., pressed for a revised and enlarged joint operation in North Africa before the end of the year, instead of a buildup for the invasion of France; but the U.S. Joint Chiefs resolutely upheld the latter plan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This week, BPC fleshed out the latter plan.

Forbes

This tendency will be even stronger if the latter plan also offers lesser benefits.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The latter plans to stay and protest his ascendancy.

The New York Times - Arts

The latter plans the motion of UAVs using the distributed receding horizon optimization.

Aerospace Science and Technology

In the latter planning phases the change possibility rapidly decreases with simultaneously increasing costs.

Energy

The latter, planned for the relatively more affluent country of Malaysia, will serve a broad swath of society.

The New York Times

The Lib Dems have threatened to block the latter plans when they are voted on next year in retaliation for Tory opposition to the Lords overhaul.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the latter plan" when you want to clearly distinguish between two specific courses of action and emphasize the second one.

Common error

Avoid using "the latter plan" when you mean a plan that will happen at a later time. "Latter" refers to the second of two options, while "later" refers to time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the latter plan" serves as a determiner phrase functioning as a noun adjunct. It references a previously mentioned plan, specifying it as the second of two options. This is supported by Ludwig's examples showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the latter plan" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon phrase used to denote the second of two previously mentioned plans. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it functions as a determiner phrase to specify a particular course of action and is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. While grammatically correct, Ludwig advises ensuring there are only two plans being referenced to avoid any ambiguity. Alternatives such as "the subsequent strategy" or "the second option" may be considered depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the subsequent strategy

Replaces "plan" with "strategy", implying a more detailed and deliberate approach.

the second option

Uses "option" instead of "plan", focusing on choice rather than design.

the alternative approach

Substitutes "plan" with "approach", suggesting a method of dealing with a situation.

the proposed solution

Emphasizes the problem-solving aspect of the plan.

the revised scheme

Indicates the plan has undergone changes or modifications.

the aforementioned strategy

Similar to the first one, but uses the wording 'aforementioned' which is more formal.

the suggested course of action

Replaces "plan" with a more descriptive phrase, highlighting the recommended steps.

the other possibility

Focuses on the potential or likelihood of the plan being implemented.

the remaining option

Implies that all other options have been eliminated.

that alternative

Shorter and more direct way to refer to a subsequent possibility.

FAQs

How to use "the latter plan" in a sentence?

"The company considered two options: expanding its product line or focusing on marketing. They chose "the latter plan" to increase brand awareness."

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

"The former plan" refers to the first of two options, while ""the latter plan" refers to the second. Make sure your writing clearly presents two choices before using these phrases.

Can I use "the latter plan" if I've mentioned more than two plans?

It's best to avoid using ""the latter plan"" if you have mentioned more than two plans, as it can create ambiguity. Consider rephrasing or specifying which plan you are referring to.

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

You can use alternatives like "the second option", "the subsequent strategy", or "the alternative approach" depending on the context.