Ladder vs Latter
What’s the difference between them?
Ladder
Meaning:
A ladder is a vertical or inclined set of rungs or steps. It is used to climb up and down, and to reach high places.
Examples:
1. I think I'm going to need a ladder to reach the top shelf.
2. The fire truck extended its ladder to the top of the building.
3. I started to climb the ladder to the tree house.
Latter
Meaning:
The latter refers to the second of two persons or things previously mentioned or implied.
Examples:
1. I prefer the latter option as it is more cost-effective.
2. The former house was much smaller than the latter.
3. We discussed both options, but in the end chose the latter.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Ladder
1. Staircase
2. Steps
3. Escalator
4. Flight of stairs
5. Rungs
1. Stairs
2. Decline
3. Descent
4. Detour
5. Step Backwards
Latter
1. Subsequent
2. Later
3. Final
4. Follow-up
5. Lasting
1. Former
2. Preceding
3. Initial
4. Beginning
5. Earlier
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Ladder", "Latter".
1. Ladder: 'A ladder helps you climb up.'
2. Latter: 'The latter comes at the end.'
3. Latter: When trying to remember the spelling of latter, think of the phrase 'the last letter' as a reminder.
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Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The word 'ladder' should be used to refer to a device consisting of two parallel sidepieces connected by rungs, typically used as an aid in climbing up and down.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The word 'latter' is used to describe the second of two items or things previously mentioned. It can also be used to refer to the second person or thing in a particular group.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words are not pronounced the same. 'Ladder' is pronounced with a short 'a' sound (lah-dur) while 'latter' is pronounced with a long 'a' sound (lay-tuhr).
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is confusing them for one another, as they are spelled similarly and sound nearly identical. Additionally, people often forget to add the appropriate article in front of 'latter' when using it in a sentence.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. We needed to climb the ___ to get into the attic.
2. At the store, I chose the ___ of the two box sizes.
3. I could hear the sound of him climbing the ___ outside.
4. She preferred the ___ option, rather than the first one.
5. The ___ of the two options seemed like the more reasonable choice.
6. She was instructed to climb the ___ to reach the top shelf.
1. We needed to climb the Ladder to get into the attic.
Explanation: The word ladder is a noun referring to a device that is used for climbing, typically with two long side pieces joined by a series of shorter pieces. The word is used to describe the tool that is necessary for climbing in order to get into the attic.
2. At the store, I chose the Latter of the two box sizes.
Explanation: The word latter is an adjective referring to the second of two people or things mentioned. In this sentence, it is used to describe the box size that was chosen out of the two options that were presented.
3. I could hear the sound of him climbing the Ladder outside.
Explanation: As in the first sentence, the word ladder is being used to describe the device used for climbing.
4. She preferred the Latter option, rather than the first one.
Explanation: The word latter is being used to describe the second of two options that were being presented.
5. The Latter of the two options seemed like the more reasonable choice.
Explanation: As in sentence 4, the word latter is being used to describe the second option out of two choices.
6. She was instructed to climb the Ladder to reach the top shelf.
Explanation: Just as the other sentences, the word ladder is being used to describe the device used for climbing.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.