# amongst

/əˈməŋst/ (US) · /ɐmˈʌŋst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Preposition

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amongst
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

in the middle of a group of people or things. It is a slightly more formal way to say 'among'.

For teachers: situated in the middle of or surrounded by a group of objects or people. Often used to indicate inclusion within a specific class or category.

## Examples

- I felt very comfortable amongst my old friends.
- The small cottage was hidden amongst a dense cluster of ancient oak trees.
- The document was eventually discovered amongst a pile of discarded manuscripts in the attic, though its historical significance was not immediately recognised by the estate executors.

## Pitfalls

- Not "amongst of the people" but "amongst the people" — Like 'among', this word is a preposition and should not be followed by 'of'.

## Usage notes

- Functions identically to 'among' but is more common in British English and formal literary contexts. Often preferred before words starting with a vowel.

---

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.