Do you ever pause and wonder whether to use among or amongst? You’re not alone—many people struggle with this subtle English difference.
People search for among vs amongst to write correctly in emails, essays, or professional documents. The confusion arises because both words mean the same thing: “in the middle of” or “surrounded by.”
In this blog, we’ll break down when to use each word with simple rules and clear examples. By the end, you’ll confidently choose between among vs amongst every time.
No more guessing—writing clearly just got easier!
Among vs Amongst – Quick Answer
Quick Answer: Both “among” and “amongst” mean “in the middle of” or “surrounded by”, but “among” is more common in modern English. “Amongst” is mostly used in British English and has a formal or poetic tone.
Examples:
- Among: She found her keys among the books on the shelf.
- Amongst: He felt lost amongst strangers in the busy city.
The Origin of Among vs Amongst
Both words come from Old English “amang”, meaning “in the midst of.” Over time, “amongst” developed as an alternative form, primarily in Middle English, adding the suffix “-st” to give a slightly formal feel.
While “among” became the standard in everyday usage, “amongst” survived in literature, poetry, and formal writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
- British English: Both among and amongst are acceptable. Amongst appears in formal writing, classic literature, or poetic contexts.
- American English: Among is overwhelmingly preferred. Amongst is considered archaic or overly formal.
Comparison Table:
| Word | Region Usage | Tone/Style | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Among | UK & US | Neutral/Modern | She walked among the tall trees. |
| Amongst | UK (rarely US) | Formal/Poetic | Thoughts drifted amongst the memories. |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Use “among” in almost all cases, especially in emails, business writing, and everyday conversation.
- Use “amongst” only for formal writing, poetry, or if your audience is British and appreciates traditional style.
- Global audience tip: Stick with “among”; it is universally understood.
Common Mistakes with Among vs Amongst
- Incorrect: He was happy amongst his friends. (correct in UK, but awkward in US)
Correct (US): He was happy among his friends. - Using amongst in casual American English emails or social media.
- Confusing among/amongst with between (use between for two items, among for three or more).
Among vs Amongst in Everyday Examples
- Emails: Please share this among the team members.
- News: The virus spread rapidly among the population.
- Social media: She felt at home among her online friends.
- Formal writing: The poet wandered amongst the ruins of the castle.
Among vs Amongst – Google Trends & Usage Data
- Popularity: According to Google Trends, “among” dominates worldwide, especially in the US, Canada, and Australia.
- Amongst shows spikes in the UK and Ireland, often linked to literature and academic content.
- Context: Most searches for “among vs amongst” are by students, writers, and English learners clarifying correct usage.
Comparison Table (Keyword Variations Side by Side):
| Keyword Variation | Popularity | Region Preference |
|---|---|---|
| Among | High | US, Global |
| Amongst | Medium | UK, Ireland |
FAQs
1. Can I use “amongst” in American English?
Yes, but it may sound outdated or overly formal. “Among” is preferred.
2. Is “amongst” wrong?
No, it is correct, just less common in modern English.
3. When should I use “among” instead of “between”?
Use between for two items, among for three or more.
4. Does “amongst” sound poetic?
Yes, it is often used in literature and poetry.
5. Which word is easier for English learners?
Among is simpler, widely understood, and safe for global usage.
6. Can I switch between them in the same document?
Avoid switching; consistency is key. Stick with among unless writing poetry or formal literature.
7. Are there any pronunciation differences?
Yes, “amongst” has an extra syllable: /əˈmʌŋst/, while “among” is /əˈmʌŋ/.
Conclusion
Choosing between among and amongst is easier than it seems. Use among for modern, everyday writing—emails, social media, and professional documents—especially in American English.
Reserve amongst for formal, literary, or British English contexts. Remember, both words mean the same thing: “in the middle of” or “surrounded by.”
By understanding the subtle differences in tone, region, and formality, you can confidently use these words without worrying about sounding awkward or outdated.
Stick with among for simplicity and global clarity, and let amongst add a touch of elegance when appropriate.
Hi, I’m Jason Carter, the author behind GrammarNestly.com.
I’m a grammar expert with a passion for helping readers understand the English language in a simple and practical way.
I love breaking down confusing grammar rules and turning them into easy, everyday lessons that anyone can follow.
