Grammar choices
Among vs. Between
Between is used for two people or things, and for separate, clearly distinct items in a list. Among is used for three or more when they are seen as a group. Split the cake between two kids, or among the whole class.
| Word | Part of speech | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| among | preposition | in or through a group of three or more, or shared by the members of a group |
| between | preposition | connecting or separating two things, or several separate things considered one by one |
Among
preposition: in or through a group of three or more, or shared by the members of a group
- The prize money was divided among the five winners.
- We found an old photo among the papers in the attic.
Between
preposition: connecting or separating two things, or several separate things considered one by one
- The bakery is between the bank and the post office.
- There are clear differences between the three phone plans.
How to remember the difference
Between has tw in it, like two and twin. Among is for a mob, a mass of three or more.
Good to know
The idea that between is only for two is a myth. Dictionaries and style guides accept between for three or more when each item is seen separately, as in a ferry route between three islands. Use among for a group seen as a whole.
Spot the mistake
Just between you and
I,me, the meeting ran far too long.Correct: Just between you and me, the meeting ran far too long.
The rumor spread quickly
betweenamong the students in the dorm.Correct: The rumor spread quickly among the students in the dorm.
Check yourself
Pick the word that fits each sentence.
1. The narrow path runs two tall fences.
Answer: between. There are exactly two fences, one on each side, so between is correct.
2. The snacks were shared everyone at the party.
Answer: among. Everyone at the party is a group of more than two, so it is among.