Today, we’re going to tackle a common confusion in English: the difference between “among” and “between.” These two words are often mixed up, but don’t worry, I’ll break it down for you in the simplest way possible.
Definition
“Among” and “between” are prepositions used to describe relationships or positions in relation to two or more things or people. However, they have different uses depending on the number of items involved.
Usage
- “Among“: We use “among” when we are referring to three or more items or people. It suggests a general or collective relationship within a group.
Example 1: The book is among the others on the shelf.
Example 2: The secret was shared among all the friends.
- Between“: On the other hand, “between” is used when we are referring to two items or people. It suggests a specific relationship between those two things.
Example 1: The ball is between the two chairs.
Example 2: She had to choose between pizza and pasta.
How to Form
Using “among”: Subject + verb + among + plural noun (group)
Using “between”: Subject + verb + between + noun (item/person) + and + noun (item/person)
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using “between” when referring to three or more items.
Incorrect: The prize was divided between the three winners.
Correct: The prize was divided among the three winners. - Using “among” with only two items.
Incorrect: She couldn’t decide among tea or coffee.
Correct: She couldn’t decide between tea and coffee.
