Among or among? This is a question that has perplexed many English language learners and even native speakers alike. The answer is simple: both are correct. However, the choice between the two depends on the context in which they are used.
Firstly, let’s establish the definition of these words. “Among” is a preposition that means “in the middle of” or “surrounded by”. On the other hand, “amoung” is simply a misspelling of “among” and does not carry any different meaning.
Now, let’s learn the proper usage of these words. “Among” is generally used when referring to a group of people or objects. For example, if you want to indicate that a particular object is part of a group, you would say “It is among the books on the shelf.” Here, we are emphasizing the object’s inclusion within the larger collective of books. Similarly, if you are talking about being surrounded by people, you could say “I felt like a spy among enemies.” In this instance, “among” highlights the feeling of being surrounded by others who may not have the same intentions as you.
On the other hand, “amongst” is a less common variant of “among” that is often used in British English. It carries the same meaning as “among” and can be used interchangeably. For example, you could say “The secret was hidden among the pages of the book” or “The secret was hidden amongst the pages of the book.” Both sentences convey the same idea, with “amongst” adding a slightly more formal or poetic touch.
To further clarify the usage of “among” and “amongst”, let’s consider the following examples:
1. “The cat was hidden among/amongst the bushes.”
Here, both “among” and “amongst” are correct choices. Whether you prefer one over the other is a matter of personal preference or regional variation.
2. “She stood out among/among her colleagues.”
Again, either “among” or “amongst” can be used here. It is worth noting that “among” is more commonly used in American English, while “amongst” is more prevalent in British English.
In conclusion, the choice between “among” and “amongst” depends on personal preference, regional variation, or the specific style guide you are following. Both words carry the same meaning and can be used interchangeably in most cases. It is worthwhile to mention that “among” is more universally recognized and used in both American and British English. So, if you are unsure which one to use, it would be safer to stick with “among”.