Latter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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latter

[ˈlætər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a sequence

Situated or occurring nearer to the end of something than to the beginning

Synonyms

last, later, second.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
latter	Used when referring to the second of two items previously mentioned. Between tea and coffee, I prefer the latter. He offered me a choice between a holiday in Paris or Rome, and I chose the latter.
second	Refers to the position coming after the first in a sequence. She finished in second place in the race. On my second attempt, I finally passed the exam.
later	Describes a time in the future, after a certain point. I'll call you later. They decided to postpone the meeting until later in the day.
last	Refers to the final person, thing, or event in a series. He was the last to leave the building. This is the last episode of the season.

Examples of usage

The latter half of the movie was more exciting than the first half
She had to choose between the former and the latter option

^{Context #2 | Noun}

communication

The second of two or the second mentioned of two

Synonyms

last, second, subsequent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
latter	Repetition of the same word ‘latter’, its usage is the same as described before. Given two candidates, he voted for the latter. Out of the two solutions, the latter is more practical.
second	Used to indicate the position following the first in a sequence. She won the second prize in the competition. Take the second turn to the right.
last	Used to describe the final item in a sequence or the most recent one in a past series. He was the last person to leave the room. In the last chapter of the book, the mystery is solved.
subsequent	Used to describe something that follows after something else, often in a chronological order. The earthquake was followed by subsequent tremors. In subsequent years, the company experienced rapid growth.

Examples of usage

He received two letters, he replied to the latter one
The former student's grades were higher than the latter's

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'latter'

The word 'latter' originated from the Old English word 'lætra', which means 'second of two'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in Modern English. The concept of 'latter' is commonly used in literature, communication, and everyday language to distinguish between the second of two things or the second mentioned of two. It provides clarity and specificity in describing sequences or choices.

Word Frequency Rank

At #547 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

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544 stock
545 determined
546 anything
547 latter
548 toward
549 blood
550 heard
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