They grappled with the problem of connecting the electricity and water supplies. The former proved simple compared with the latter.

他们设法解决供电和供水的连接问题。前者与后者相比证明很简单。

《柯林斯英汉双解大词典》

To be frank, I prefer the former to the latter.

坦白来讲，比起后者，我更喜欢前者。

youdao

The former offers more excitement and convenience while the latter offers a cleaner, quieter and often friendlier place to live.

前者提供了更多的刺激和便利，而后者提供了一个更干净、更安静、通常也更友好的居住环境。

youdao

That is particularly true insofar as the former exploit - and even foment - the latter to advance their shared goals: the triumph of shariah world-wide and the reestablishment of a Caliphate to rule pursuant to it.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

In both Hollingsworth and Windsor, the executive branch of the government--California's governor and attorney general in the former case, the Obama administration in the latter--has declined to defend the law under challenge.

WSJ: Best of the Web Today: Maybe Scalia Was Wrong

All eyes before kick-off were focused on Terry and Bridge, who came face-to-face for the first time since allegations about the former's relationship with the latter's ex-partner.

BBC: Chelsea 2-4 Man City