What is Between?
The word “between” can be used as a preposition, adverb, or noun.
As a preposition, it indicates a relationship between two things or people, in the physical sense of being in the middle of them. As an adverb, it modifies a verb, telling us when or how something happens. And as a noun, “between” can refer to a period of time, or to the space separating two things.
In all of these cases, the word “between” implies some sort of connection or relationship. It’s not just a matter of location; there’s some sort of link between the two things. This connection can be physical, like the space between two buildings, or it can be more abstract, like the relationship between two people.
The word “between” is used to express a choice or preference. So, in short, the word “between” can be used to express a variety of relationships, both physical and abstract. It’s a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts.
What is Among?
The word among can be used in a variety of ways, but most it is used to indicate relationships or connections between people or things. For example, you might say “I have a lot of friends, but I don’t feel like I fit in among them.” This would indicate that you feel like an outsider in your group of friends.
Among can also be used to indicate a relationship of shared experience or commonality. For example, you might say “I’m among the many people who were affected by the layoff.” In this case, you are indicating that you are one of many people who have gone through the same experience.
Finally, among can also be used to indicate a relationship of comparison or contrast. For example, you might say “I’m the tallest person among my friends.” In this case, you are indicating that you are taller than your friends.
No matter how it is used, the word among always indicates some sort of relationship. Whether that relationship is one of shared experience, comparison, or contrast, it always provides a way to connect people or things.
Difference Between “Between” and “Among”
- “Between” is used when referring to two or more things that are distinct and separate from each other, while “among” is used when referring to three or more things that are grouped together.
- “Between” is used when referring to things that are in a relationship with each other, while “among” is used when referring to things that are not in a relationship with each other.
- “Between” is used when referring to things that are in a specific order, while “among” is used when referring to things that are not in a specific order.
- “Between” is used when referring to things that are in a particular place, while “among” is used when referring to things that are not in a particular place.
- “Between” is used when referring to things that are in a specific time, while “among” is used when referring to things that are not in a specific time.
Comparison Between “Between” and “Among”
| Parameters of comparison | Between | Among |
| Meaning | refers to two things | refers to more than two things |
| Pronunciation | pronounced with a long “e” sound | pronounced with a short “o” sound |
| Usage | used when referring to two things | whenever more than two things are being referred |
| Origin | comes from the Old English word “betwux” | comes from the Old English word “ongemang” |
| Followed by | Followed by a plural noun | Followed by differentiating and distinguishing two or more objects |