The school and classes were good but the duration of these ones was too long.

Let’s improve that sentence which appeared in a group writing task. As you can see, the first part introduces two subjects – school and classes – while the second part refers only to the classes (these ones). In such a situation, we can use the word LATTER to give a formal/business style to the structure:

• The school and classes were good but the duration of the LATTER was too long.

If we wanted to refer to the first subject – school – the word to use is FORMER.

• The school and classes were good but the FORMER was far from the city centre.

Here’s one more:

• At the seminar I got to know Dick and Nicole. The FORMER has just joined the company while the LATTER works at our UK office.

When both words are used, always begin with FORMER and carry on with LATTER. Don’t forget to use the with them – the FORMER and the LATTER.

Can you think of a real-life situation where you could have used these words? As always, I’ll be happy to read your ideas.