What is difference between later and latter
by Yogi P - October 18, 2023
The Difference Between Later and Latter
Have you ever encountered a situation in which you were unable to distinguish between the words ‘later’ and ‘latter’? If so, you’re not alone. These two terms are commonly confused in English. To help clarify, we’ll take a closer look at how ‘later’ and ‘latter’ are used in sentences.
Later
The adverb ‘later’ is used to refer to something that has not yet happened or will eventually happen in the future: “I’d like to discuss that topic later.” Furthermore, it can also be used to refer to something that happened after something else: “I went to work first, later I went to the park.”
Latter
The adjective ‘latter’, on the other hand, is used to differentiate between two things previously mentioned: “Of the two options, the latter was more appealing.” It can also be used to describe someone and their behavior in a negative way: “The latter’s attitude was less than desirable.”
The Difference between Later and Latter
| Word | Later | Latter | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Refers to something which is yet to happen in the future | Used to differentiate between two previously mentioned things | |
| Usage | Used as an adverb | Used as an adjective | |
| Example | I’d like to discuss that topic later. | Of the two options, the latter was more appealing. |
When attempting to choose between the two words, it is important to note that ‘later’ is an adverb and ‘latter’ is an adjective. To ensure accuracy in usage, establish what type of word you need, and then proceed to select the appropriate word.
Overview of later vs latter
| Aspect | Later | Latter |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Refers to a point in time after the present or another specified time | Refers to the second of two things or the last one mentioned |
| Usage | Primarily used to indicate a future point in time or to describe something that occurs after another event | Used to distinguish between two mentioned things or to refer to the second or last thing in a list |
| Example | She will arrive later in the evening. | There are two options: one is to stay, and the latter is to leave. |
| Sequence | Typically related to the chronological order of events | Often used in discussions or comparisons |
| Synonyms | Subsequently, afterward, in the future | The second, the last, the final, the one mentioned later |
| Variations | “Later” is a single word. | “Latter” is a single word. |
Activity to Enhance Understanding
Focus on reading content that regularly employs ‘later’ and ‘latter’ to form a better understanding of these words. Test yourself by coming up with sentences of your own that feature both ‘later’ and ‘latter’.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the words ‘later’ and ‘latter’ can both be used in sentences, but they hold distinct meanings. ‘Later’ is an adverb that is used to refer to something which is yet to happen in the future, while ‘latter’ an adjective that is used to differentiate between two things previously mentioned. By taking the time to distinguish between the two, you can ensure that you are using them correctly in your writing.
