Lateish vs. Latish — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 25, 2024
"Lateish" and "latish" are informal terms meaning somewhat late, but "lateish" is the more commonly accepted spelling in contemporary usage.
Difference Between Lateish and Latish
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Key Differences
"Lateish" and "latish" are both adjectival forms used to describe something that is slightly or somewhat late. While "lateish" is more commonly used in modern English, "latish" appears less frequently.
Both terms function as informal ways to express that an event or time is not extremely late but rather moderately so. However, the spelling "lateish" aligns more closely with standard English conventions for forming such adjectives.
In terms of usage, "lateish" is more likely to be recognized and understood in everyday communication. On the other hand, "latish" might be considered an older or less standard variant.
The terms are used in similar contexts, such as describing arrival times or phases of the day. For example, one might say "lateish afternoon" to describe a time closer to evening but not quite there yet.
"Lateish" is preferred in most editorial and formal writing due to its alignment with other adjectival forms ending in "-ish," which indicate approximation or similarity.
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Comparison Chart
Common Usage
More commonly accepted
Less commonly used
Spelling Alignment
Aligns with English adjective formation norms
Seen as less standard
Recognition
Higher recognition in contemporary use
Lower, might be seen as archaic
Usage Context
Informal descriptions of time or lateness
Same as lateish, but rarer
Editorial Preference
Preferred in formal and editorial writing
Less preferred due to irregular formation
Compare with Definitions
Lateish
Somewhat late, not exactly on time but not significantly delayed.
He arrived in the lateish morning, just before lunchtime.
Latish
Describing an afternoon period that is nearing the evening.
The sun was still high in the sky in the latish afternoon.
Lateish
A time in the evening that is past the middle but not yet night.
We're planning to meet up in the lateish evening, after most shops close.
Latish
Refers to a phase that is towards the end but not completely over.
The construction was in its latish phase, with finishing touches left.
Lateish
A stage in a process that is nearing completion but isn't finalized.
The project is in its lateish stages, with most of the work done.
Latish
A time in a seasonal cycle that is past the peak but before the end.
The team improved their performance in the latish part of the season.
Lateish
Referring to a period in one's career that is past the midpoint but not at retirement.
She took on the managerial role in the lateish part of her career.
Latish
An alternate form of lateish, meaning somewhat late.
They kicked off the meeting at a latish hour of the morning.
Lateish
A trend that has been popular for a while but is not at its peak.
He adopted the fashion trend when it was already lateish and widely accepted.
Latish
Joining or adopting something well after its inception.
He was a latish adopter of the new technology, hesitant at first.
Lateish
(colloquial) Quite late
Latish
Fairly late.
Lateish
(colloquial) Quite late
Latish
(informal) Somewhat late
Latish
(informal) Somewhat late
We'll be home latish, perhaps not until 10 p.m.
Latish
Somewhat late.
Latish
Somewhat late
Common Curiosities
What is the significance of using "-ish" in English adjectives?
The suffix "-ish" is used to denote approximation, similarity, or sufficiency, conveying a sense of "somewhat" or "around."
Can "latish" be used in formal writing?
While it can appear in informal contexts, "lateish" is generally preferred in formal writing.
How do I know which spelling to use?
"Lateish" is advisable for general use, especially in professional or academic contexts.
Is there a difference in pronunciation between "lateish" and "latish"?
The pronunciation is typically the same, focusing on the "late" part with a diminutive "-ish" suffix.
Are "lateish" and "latish" officially recognized in dictionaries?
"Lateish" is more commonly recognized and listed in contemporary dictionaries than "latish."
What impact does the suffix "-ish" have on the word "late"?
The suffix "-ish" softens the absoluteness of "late," implying that something is near to or approaching being late but without the full severity or definitiveness.
Are there any specific contexts where "latish" might be preferred?
"Latish" might be used for stylistic or poetic reasons, or in dialects or regional forms of English where it has remained more common.
Is "lateish" more modern than "latish"?
Yes, "lateish" is considered more modern and is more frequently used in current English language usage compared to "latish."
Can "latish" still be understood by most English speakers?
Yes, while less common, "latish" can still be understood by English speakers, particularly within contexts where approximation of time is discussed.
How should I use "lateish" or "latish" in a sentence to convey uncertainty?
To convey uncertainty, you might say, "The event might start lateish," indicating that the start time is expected to be somewhat late but not exactly specified.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
