# among

/əˈməŋ/ (US) · /ɐmˈʌŋ/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Preposition

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/among
Updated: 2026-04-25

## Definition

in the middle of a group of three or more people or things. You can also use it to mean 'one of' a particular group.

For teachers: indicating inclusion within, movement through, or distribution to the members of a group of three or more. It can also signify being one of a specified group.

## Examples

- The cat is hiding among the bushes.
- She felt a little lonely, even when she was among her closest friends.
- Among the many proposals submitted, only a few were innovative enough to be considered for the final round of funding.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The prize was divided between the three winners." but "The prize was divided among the three winners." — Use 'among' for undifferentiated groups of three or more. 'Between' is typically used for only two people or things, or for distinct, named items.

## Usage notes

- Typically used for relationships involving three or more entities, in contrast to 'between', which is traditionally used for two.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.