English UsageComparison guide
Among vs. Amongst
“Among” and “amongst” serve the same prepositional function in the documented uses. The distinction is chiefly one of frequency and formality, not grammatical correctness.
Use “among” as the neutral, more common form. “Amongst” is also standard but is more formal and less common.
Key details
Confusion Familyregister-variant
Rule Familypreposition-variant
Termsamong, amongst
Variant ScopeCambridge treats “amongst” as an alternative to “among” and notes that it is more formal and less common.
Further guidance
Core difference
“Amongst” is an alternative form of “among” in the same prepositional uses.
Register Boundary
“Among” is the common neutral choice; “amongst” is less common and more formal.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Among and amongst — English Grammar Today (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Among/amongst equivalence and formality/frequency guidance