Referring back
the former, the latter, this + noun, such, respectively
The rules
- "the latter" refers to the second of two things: the trams.
- "This + summary noun" refers back clearly: "This fall".
- "such + plural noun" refers back to the kind of thing just mentioned.
- "respectively" matches the lists in order: Paris 2, Rome 3.
- "This rise" names exactly what you mean; "it" and "that" can be vague.
- "the former" = the first of the two things mentioned.
Examples
- We considered buses and trams; the latter were cheaper to run.
- Unemployment fell sharply in 2024. This fall was largely due to tourism.
- Smoking bans and sugar taxes have been introduced, and such measures are popular.
- 3 million
- Costs went up. This rise worried investors.
- Of the two, the former is cheaper.
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1.We considered buses and trams; _____ were cheaper to run.
2.Unemployment fell sharply in 2024. _____ was largely due to tourism.
3.Smoking bans and sugar taxes have been introduced, and _____ measures are popular.
4.“Paris and Rome have 2 and 3 million people respectively.” How many live in Rome?
5.Which reference is clearest?