Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Latter" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "latter", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
後者
こうしゃ (kōsha)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
末法思想
まっぽうしそう (mappoushisou)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "latter" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 後者 and 末法思想.
In Japanese, 後者 (こうしゃ (kōsha)) is typically associated with "the latter" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when referring to the second of two things or people previously mentioned. The antonym is 「前者（ぜんしゃ）」..
On the other hand, 末法思想 (まっぽうしそう (mappoushisou)) maps to "Latter Day of the Law belief" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "latter" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "後者"
私は犬と猫が好きだ。どちらかといえば、後者の方が好きだ。
I like dogs and cats. If I had to choose, I prefer the latter.
Bilingual Context for "末法思想"
私は末法思想に興味があります。
I am interested in Latter Day of the Law belief.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は犬と猫が好きだ。どちらかといえば、 ＿＿＿ の方が好きだ。" (Meaning: "I like dogs and cats. If I had to choose, I prefer the latter.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "後者" fits here because it means "the latter" in the context of: "I like dogs and cats. If I had to choose, I prefer the latter.". "末法思想" represents "Latter Day of the Law belief".