English Reference

Word

'midst

Phoneticsmidst

US/ˈmɪdst/

UK/mˈɪdst/

Definition

n. the middle part of something or the period of time when something is happening. You use it to describe being surrounded by a group of people or being in the middle of a busy situation.

n. the middle or central part of a group, location, or period of time. Often used in prepositional phrases to indicate being surrounded by or deeply involved in an ongoing event.

Usage

Almost exclusively used in the prepositional phrase 'in the midst of'.

Pitfall

in the mid of the crowd

in the midst of the crowd

Learners often confuse 'midst' with 'mid' or 'middle'; 'midst' is specifically used for being surrounded by things or events.

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/midst

English Reference