The difference between between and among can be confusing, but it’s easier than it seems. While both are prepositions that describe relationships, they are used in different situations. Between is used for individual items or comparisons, while among is used for groups or collective ideas.
In this guide, you’ll learn the full difference between between vs. among, with grammar rules, clear examples, and common mistakes explained in a simple way. By the end, you’ll be able to use both confidently in everyday English.
What Does Between Mean?
Between is traditionally used when referring to two people, places, things, or groups. It emphasizes a one-to-one relationship or connection between distinct and separate items. However, between can also be used for more than two things if they are considered individually rather than collectively.
For example, when a person has to choose between several options, they are considering each option separately. In such cases, between is appropriate even if there are more than two items involved.
Examples:
- The negotiations between the three countries lasted for years.
- She stood between the two trees at the entrance.
- There is a strong bond between the members of the team.
Even when three or more are mentioned, between works if the focus is on specific individual relationships rather than the group as a whole.
What Does Among Mean?
Among is used when referring to more than two persons, places, or things, considered as a group rather than individually. It emphasizes being part of a larger whole or being surrounded by many elements without highlighting one-to-one relationships.
When using among, you are not isolating individuals; instead, you are referring to them collectively. This is why among is common when speaking about distribution, sharing, or general location within a group.
Examples:
- Distribute the candies among the children.
- She felt comfortable among her classmates.
- There was a lot of excitement among the fans after the victory.
Here, we are not talking about each child or fan separately, but about the group experience as a whole.
Can “Between” Be Used with More Than Two?
Yes! Many people think that between is only for two things, but that’s not always true.
You can use between for three or more items if you are talking about them one by one or individually. For example:
-
The treaty was signed between France, Germany, and Italy.
Each country made specific agreements with the others individually.
However, if you mean being part of a larger group without individual focus, among is better:
-
There was a strong friendship among the countries of Europe.
Between vs. Among: Understanding the Difference
| Feature | Between | Among |
|---|---|---|
| Number of items | Usually two, or more if considered individually | More than two, seen as a group |
| Focus | One-to-one relationships, separate items | Collective or shared group focus |
| Usage | Choices, comparisons, or dividing between specific people/things | Talking about being part of or surrounded by a group |
| Example | He divided the money between his two sons. | She felt comfortable among her friends. |
Quiz: Between vs. Among
Test your understanding with this quick quiz! Choose the correct word:
1. She divided the cookies ___ the two boys.
a) between
b) among
2. There was a lot of excitement ___ the team members.
a) between
b) among
3. The negotiations ___ the companies were successful.
a) between
b) among
4. He hid the letter ___ the pile of magazines.
a) between
b) among
5. The teacher walked ___ the rows of students.
a) between
b) among
6. There is a strong friendship ___ the three friends.
a) between
b) among
7. I couldn’t decide ___ the two dresses.
a) between
b) among
8. There was a debate ___ the countries about climate change.
a) between
b) among
9. They sat ___ the trees for a picnic.
a) between
b) among
10. Distribute the homework ___ the whole class.
a) between
b) among
Quiz Answers
1) between
2) among
3) between
4) among
5) between
6) among
7) between
8) between
9) among
10) among
