Later vs Latter
Later = after a time (see you later). Latter = the second of two things mentioned (of tea and coffee, I prefer the latter).
The one-line answer
Later = after a time (see you later). Latter = the second of two things mentioned (of tea and coffee, I prefer the latter).
later
adverbat a future time or after the present time — comparative of 'late'
- I'll call you later tonight.
- She arrived ten minutes later.
- See you later!
latter
adjective / nounthe second of two things or people already mentioned — opposite of 'former'
- We could walk or take a taxi — the latter is faster.
- Of the two options, the latter seems safer.
- In the latter part of the century, cities grew rapidly.
Memory trick
Latter has double T like 'the second' has two words? Better: latter = the one named last (both start with L). Later relates to 'late' — time.
Later vs Latter: Test yourself
Question 1 of 2I could take the bus or the train — the ___ is cheaper.