Among vs. Amongst: Which One Should You Use?

At Midoo AI, we often see English learners pause when choosing between “among” and “amongst”—they look similar, sound similar, and even mean the same thing.

So which one should you actually use?

The short answer: “among” is standard and modern, while “amongst” is rare and sounds old-fashioned.

Let’s walk through their meanings, usage, and some easy tips to make the choice clear.

Among — The Common, Modern Choice ✅

“Among” is the standard and most widely used form in modern English, especially in American English.

It’s used in everyday writing and speech.

Examples:

She was sitting among her friends.
That book is popular among teenagers.
There was a sense of excitement among the students.
He quickly disappeared among the crowd.
The secret was kept among the team members.

💡 Use “among” for almost all situations — it’s simple, clear, and always correct.

Amongst — Less Common and More Formal 🌿

“Amongst” has the same meaning as “among,”

but it’s less common, sounds more old-fashioned or poetic,

and is used mainly in British English or in formal/literary writing.

Examples:

She was happy to be amongst old friends again.
Peace was restored amongst the nations.
He found himself amongst strangers.
The letter was hidden amongst the pages of the book.

💡 In American English, “amongst” is rare and might sound overly formal or old-fashioned.

Quick Trick to Remember

✅ Use “among” in everyday writing.
✨ Use “amongst” if you want a British or literary tone.

Both are correct, so you’ll never be wrong choosing “among.”

FAQS

Q: Is “amongst” incorrect?

A: No. It’s correct but less common, especially in American English.

Q: Can I use “amongst” in formal writing?

A: Yes, but only if you want a slightly old-fashioned or poetic tone.

Q: Which one should I use on tests?

A: Use “among” — it’s standard and safe.

Q: Are there any grammar differences?

A: No, they are used in exactly the same way.