latter

Coming second when two things are mentioned, or belonging to the later part of a period.

• I prefer the latter option.
• Rain is expected in the latter half of the week.
• His latter years were spent near the sea.

Similar words: later, second

Opposites: former, earlier

Common phrases: latter half, latter part, latter option

Near the end of a period of time.

• Rain is expected in the latter half of the week.
• Sales improved during the latter part of the year.
• The latter stages of the match were exciting.

Similar words: later, final

Opposites: earlier

Common phrases: latter part, latter half, latter stages

Happening in the past, but closer to the present than an earlier period.

• His latter years were peaceful.
• Her latter writings show a growing interest in nature.
• In his latter days, he rarely left the village.

Similar words: later, more recent

Opposites: earlier

Common phrases: latter years, latter days, latter writings

The second of two people or things that have just been mentioned.

• We could walk or cycle; I prefer the latter.
• She studied French and German, using the latter at work.
• Tea and coffee were offered, but the latter was already cold.

Similar words: the second

Opposites: former

Common phrases: the latter, choose the latter, prefer the latter