latter

[ˈlætər]

latter Definition

referring to the second of two things or people mentioned (the first being described as 'former').

Using latter: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "latter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I prefer the latter option.

  • Example

    The former president was more popular than the latter.

  • Example

    He was offered a job in either London or Paris, and he chose the latter.

latter Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for latter

  • second
  • last-mentioned
  • second-mentioned

Antonyms for latter

Phrases with latter

  • the second of two equal periods of time into which a year is divided

    Example

    The latter half of the year is usually busier for us.

  • the final period of someone's life or of a particular historical period

    Example

    In the latter days of his life, he became more reflective and philosophical.

  • the final years of someone's life

    Example

    In the latter years of her life, she suffered from poor health.

Origins of latter

from Old English 'lætra', comparative of 'late'

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Summary: latter in Brief

'Latter' [ˈlætər] refers to the second of two things or people mentioned, with the first being described as 'former.' It is commonly used to distinguish between two options or individuals, as in 'I prefer the latter option.' 'Latter' can also be used in phrases like 'the latter half,' referring to the second of two equal periods of time, or 'the latter days,' referring to the final period of someone's life or of a particular historical period.

How do native speakers use this expression?