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between – among
[different pronunciation]
“Between” is a preposition and is used to talk about ‘a thing/person that separates two other things or people. So, if something or someone is “between” two other people or things, the people or things are on either side of the thing/person mentioned’,
However, in expressing mutual relations and comparison, and of clear, exact position of a location or country, it is correct to use “between” though the things/people mentioned are more than two.
e.g.
She sat between her two brothers.
There is a small lawn between the house and the fence.
The usher walked up and down between the rows of seats in the hall.
There is a peace treaty between the eight States.
Ethiopia lies between the Sudan, Kenya and the Somali Republic. [between three countries]
What is the difference between the words ‘artist’, ‘artiste’ and ‘artisan’?
“Among” is a preposition, too, and is used to talk about ‘a person/thing that is surrounded by more than two other people of things. So, if something or someone is “among” other things or people, the things or people are all around the thing/person mentioned’,
“Among” is always followed by a plural or a collective noun!
a woman among a flock of sheep
e.g.
The shepherdess looked forlorn standing among the grazing sheep.
We heard the sounds of birds among the trees.
Compare:
He divided his property between his two sons.
He divided his property among his four sons.
Common Errors:
1.
The singer was off stage between each song. [wrong]
The singer was off stage between songs. [right]
OR
The singer was off stage after each song. [right]
2.
Do not arouse anger or fear among the young children. [wrong]
Do not arouse anger or fear in the young children. [right]
3.
This film star is very popular among the masses. [wrong]
This film star is very popular with the masses. [right]
4.
Shops are closed between 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. [wrong]
Shops are closed between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. [right]
OR
Shops are closed from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. [right]
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About the Author:BC Kumar
BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.
