Some words are confusing enough to reread in a sentence to understand what was the exact reference that is being made in the sentence. A similar confusion happens with the words ‘Former vs Latter’.

You may have seen in the essays and assignments that the former and latter are two words that are used when comparing two items such that the former is used for the first one while later is used in the reference of the second one.

As you read this article I will explain the difference between these two words Former Vs Latter and help you understand the appropriate use of them in the sentences.

Former Vs Latter | Former Or Latter

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·        Meaning of Former

The word ‘Former’ refers to first when talking about two items. It could be used as a noun or an adjective depending on the context of usage.

In other words, the Former could also mean a previous role that someone held but no longer holds now. It is derived from an old English word ‘forma’ which means first but it is still in use.

Examples

Abraham Lincoln was the former president of the United States.
I usually buy clothes from Nike and Gucci brands, but I prefer the former one more. (Talking about Nike)
I have two children, one with my former wife and one from my present wife. (Talking about the first wife)

·        Meaning of Latter

The word ‘Latter’ refers to the second item when talking about two items. It could also be used as a noun or an adjective depending on the context of usage.

Examples

I usually buy clothes from Nike and Gucci brands but I prefer the latter one more. (Talking about Gucci)
I have two children, one from my first wife and the latter from my present wife.
I gave her two ideas but she liked the latter idea more.

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How to remember the difference?

The best and easiest way to remember the difference between these two words is that ‘Former’ starts from the letter ‘F’ so it refers to ‘first’ while ‘Latter’ starts from the letter ‘L’ so it refers to ‘last’.

Note the point

While using these two words always remember that the words can’t be used when comparing more than two items as it perfectly works for two items only.

The Final Words

I hope this article was helpful and it has cleared all your doubts related to these two words Former Vs Latter.

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