What is the difference between later and latter?

Later (/ˈleɪtə/, LAY-ter) means after some time. Latter (/ˈlætə/, LAT-ter) means the second of two things already mentioned. Latter has two t's, and it always picks from two things. Later has one t and a long 'ay' sound, like 'late'.

Later vs Latter: What's the Difference?

Later vs Latter at a glance

later
/ˈleɪtə/ · adverb
At a time after now or after the time you are talking about.
- I'm busy now – can I call you back later?
- Two years later, they got married.
“later” in the vocabulary guide
latter
/ˈlætə/ · noun / adjective (usually the latter)
The second of two people or things just mentioned.
- We could go by train or by car, but the latter is cheaper.
- I've read books by Orwell and Huxley, and I prefer the latter.

How to remember it

Latter has two t's, and it always picks from two things. Later has one t and a long 'ay' sound, like 'late'.

Good to know

The opposite of the latter is the former (the first of two). Both are a little formal; in conversation, people often just say "the second one". Latter can also mean near the end: "the latter part of the year".

Common mistakes

Wrong: See you latter!
Right: See you later!
Wrong: Tea or coffee? I'll have the later, please.
Right: Tea or coffee? I'll have the latter, please.

Quick quiz

1.The shop is closed now, so let's come back .
2.You can have pizza or pasta. The comes with a salad.
3.I'll finish this report tonight.

Pick the right word for each gap.