the latter
noun
1
: the second one of two things or people that have been mentioned
Of these two options, the former is less expensive, while the latter is less risky.
2
: the last thing or person mentioned
Of chicken, fish, and meat, I like the latter best.
3
: the thing or person that has just been mentioned
The President—or, if the latter is too busy, the Vice President—will see you shortly.
Examples of the latter in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Just like the Expedition, rear- and four-wheel-drive were both on offer, with the latter featuring 2WD, Auto 4WD, 4-high and 4-low options at the twist of a knob; a four-speed automatic was the sole gearbox.
—
Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 5 June 2025
For example, the former stated that private companies added 107,000 jobs in January 2024, but the latter posted a 353,000 gain in nonfarm payrolls for the same period.
—Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 5 June 2025
Since the latter stepped down from his Royal duties, William was responsible for taking over.
—Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 4 June 2025
The former, with its iconic castles, characters, and warp pipe entrance, and the latter with dozens of dragons, three rides, and one amazing show do not disappoint.
—Kimberly Zapata, Parents, 3 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for the latter
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Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 5 June 2025
For example, the former stated that private companies added 107,000 jobs in January 2024, but the latter posted a 353,000 gain in nonfarm payrolls for the same period.
—Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 5 June 2025
Since the latter stepped down from his Royal duties, William was responsible for taking over.
—Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 4 June 2025
The former, with its iconic castles, characters, and warp pipe entrance, and the latter with dozens of dragons, three rides, and one amazing show do not disappoint.
—Kimberly Zapata, Parents, 3 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for the latter
Cite this Entry
“The latter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20latter. Accessed 8 Jun. 2025.
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