Latter vs. Letter: Difference and Comparison
By Muazma Batool & Muneeza Rehman — Updated on February 21, 2024
"Latter" refers to the second of two things mentioned, while "letter" is a written, typed, or printed communication sent to a recipient.
Difference Between Latter and Letter
Latter and letter are distinct in meaning, despite their similar pronunciation. Latter is used to denote the second or last of two items discussed in a conversation or text. For instance, when comparing coffee and tea, if one prefers the latter, they prefer tea. Letter, however, refers to a piece of written correspondence, typically enclosed in an envelope and sent through the mail. For example, receiving a letter from a friend can be a delightful experience.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
The use of latter is strictly in the context of choices, sequence, or comparison, emphasizing position or preference. It is a term of reference within discussions or arguments. Letter, conversely, has a tangible aspect, representing physical or digital communication between individuals or entities. It can carry various types of messages, from personal to official.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
While latter serves a grammatical or rhetorical function in language, indicating temporal or logical order, letter plays a crucial role in communication, literacy, and historical documentation. Letters can be personal, such as those shared among friends, or formal, such as business or official communications.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Latter is often seen in academic, legal, or formal writings to clarify positions or preferences towards the end of an argument or list. Letter, on the other hand, is ubiquitous in everyday life, symbolizing the exchange of news, information, and sentiments between parties. The art of letter writing, or epistolary communication, has evolved from handwritten notes to digital formats, yet its essence remains the conveyance of thought and emotion.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Despite their phonetic similarity, the practical applications of latter and letter diverge significantly. One is used to express choice or sequence, while the other embodies the act of communication, whether through physical mail or electronic means.
Lucas
Feb 21, 2024
Latter vs. Letter Comparison Chart
Definition
Refers to the second of two items mentioned.
A written, typed, or printed communication sent to someone.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Function
Grammatical or rhetorical, indicating preference or order.
Medium of communication, conveying information or emotion.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Examples in Use
"Between tea and coffee, I prefer the latter."
"I received a heartfelt letter from an old friend."
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Physicality
Abstract concept with no physical form.
Tangible object that can be physical or digital.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Latter vs. Letter Definitions
◉Latter
Denoting the second of two things mentioned.
Of cats and dogs, he's more fond of the latter.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
◉Letter
Can be electronic, like an email.
He received a letter of acceptance via email.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
◉Latter
Pertains to the second mentioned of two choices.
Between summer and winter, I prefer the latter.
Levi
Feb 21, 2024
◉Letter
Often used for formal communication.
The company sent a letter of apology to its customers.
Elijah
Feb 21, 2024
◉Latter
Used to reference the later part or end of something.
The latter half of the book was more engaging.
Leo
Feb 21, 2024
◉Letter
A means of personal communication.
Friends exchanged letters while living abroad.
Leo
Feb 21, 2024
◉Latter
Indicates preference for the second option.
Faced with staying or leaving, she chose the latter.
Lucas
Feb 21, 2024
◉Letter
A written message enclosed in an envelope.
She wrote a letter to her grandmother.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
◉Latter
Refers to the last item in a list of two.
In the debate between tradition and innovation, the latter often prevails.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
◉Letter
Symbolizes literary or historical documentation.
The letters of famous authors provide insight into their lives.
Henry
Feb 21, 2024
◉Latter
Being the second of two persons or things mentioned
Regarding captain and major, the latter rank is higher.
Muazma Batool
May 03, 2023
◉Letter
A written symbol or character representing a speech sound and being a component of an alphabet.
Muazma Batool
May 03, 2023
Latter vs. Letter Frequently Asked Questions
Is a letter always physical?
No, letters can also be digital, such as emails, but they maintain the essence of personal or formal communication.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Is writing letters still common today?
While less common due to digital communication, letter writing remains a cherished form of personal correspondence for many.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Can latter be used to refer to more than two things?
No, "latter" specifically refers to the second of two items; for more than two, terms like "last" are more appropriate.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
How is latter used in a sentence?
"Latter" is used to indicate preference or reference the second item mentioned, e.g., "Between apples and oranges, I prefer the latter."
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Can letter refer to something other than communication?
Yes, "letter" can also refer to characters in an alphabet, but in the context of this comparison, it pertains to written communication.
Elijah
Feb 21, 2024
Can emails be considered letters?
Yes, emails are considered a form of letter, adapting the traditional concept to digital communication.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
What is the main difference between latter and letter?
"Latter" refers to the second of two things mentioned, while "letter" is a piece of written communication.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
How does one choose between using latter and letter?
The choice depends on context: "latter" for indicating the second of two options, and "letter" for referring to written communication.
Muazma Batool
Feb 21, 2024
Is the use of latter formal?
"Latter" is used in both formal and informal contexts, but its usage is more common in structured, argumentative, or comparative discussions.
Nolan
Feb 21, 2024
What does it mean to receive a letter?
Receiving a letter means someone has sent you a message, either through physical mail or electronically, intended for personal or official purposes.
Henry
Feb 21, 2024
Content Creators
Written by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
Co-written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
