Hello there, English learner! 👋
Great question about “between” and “among.” These two prepositions are often confused, but each one has a specific use depending on how many things or people you’re talking about and how they relate to each other. Let’s break it down clearly so you can use them with confidence!

🗝️ Quick Summary

📚 1. Between – Two or Distinct Individuals

✅ Use “between” when:

• You’re talking about two things or people, OR
• You’re choosing one item from a group of distinct choices

🗣️ Examples:

• I’m sitting between Tom and Sarah. (2 people)
• The negotiations were between the company and the union.
• You must choose between these three colleges. (Distinct choices—even if more than 2)

🧠 Even if there are more than two, use between when each item is clearly separate or compared individually.

📚 2. Among – Three or More in a Group

✅ Use “among” when:

• You’re referring to a group of 3 or more things or people that are not considered individually, but as a collective whole

🗣️ Examples:

• She felt comfortable among friends.
• There’s a hidden gem among these old books.
• He disappeared among the crowd.

🧠 “Among” shows inclusion within a group or being part of a mass.

🔁 Quick Comparison

📝 Practice Time: Choose between or among

1. I found a coin ______ the cushions on the sofa.
2. He divided the candy ______ his three children.
3. She walked ______ the flowers in the garden.
4. The agreement was made ______ the two companies.
5. You have to choose ______ five possible answers.

✅ Answers:

1. among (a group of cushions)
2. among (shared with a group)
3. among (in a group of flowers)
4. between (2 companies)
5. between (distinct options)

💡 Learning Tip:

Pro Tip:

• Use between when thinking about clear, separate options.
• Use among when thinking about being in the middle of a group.

🎯 Trick to remember:

✏️ BeTWOen = Two things (or distinct choices)
✏️ Among = A mass or group