There is no "wrong" choice in choosing between among or amongst in verbal or written usage. While each carries different connotations, the meaning of among and amongst is essentially the same in modern usage, despite assertions to the contrary.
Among vs Amongst
"Among" is more common in modern usage and American English, and does not carry the folksy, old-fashioned connotation of "amongst", which appears less out of place in British English. Indeed, "amongst" often appears awkward unless placed in a dramatic, poetic context, as in "men amongst boys".
Writers looking to add that touch of the epic quality of the classics to their work may opt to use the more British-sounding, dramatic forms of common words like among. Their particular usage of English will play a role in setting the context and tone of the work, and their choice between among and amongst (or should that read betwixt among and amongst?) is no different.
Space constraints may have occasioned the drop of the final sound of amongst, with the print media shortening the word to among in the interest of brevity over the last century. It is unclear when the change took place, but the shorter version has gradually gained usage in the United States.
When to Use Among or Amongst
The option of using "among" or "amongst" is ultimately an aesthetic one. In choosing when to use among or amongst, some have chosen "amongst" when dealing with verbs implying movement, such as "he moved amongst the crowd" rather than "he stood among the others". This is not necessary, however, to constitute proper usage of either spelling.
The English language throws up many interesting choices for speakers, and while this may prove difficult to master, the richness of the language ultimately allows for a wide variety of meaning in expression, whether in speech or written literature.
The choice between "among" and "amongst" reflects the flexible quality of English as a language, as either choice brings up its own connotations. "Among" conjures up images of modernity and progression, while its old-fashioned counterpart "amongst" seems to belong to a simpler time, both linguistically and generally.
Difference Between Among and Amongst
Potential students of English face difficult choices in learning grammatical issues like the difference between among and amongst, but the choice between these options is of a simply stylistic nature. Editors have long battled over which is appropriate, but the tone of the work will ultimately dictate which choice is made.
Those learning English will soon appreciate the options presented to them in composing even the most basic sentence. The choice of "among" and "amongst" is but one example of the varied meanings and connotations attributable to synonyms so closely related as "among" and "amongst".
Scott Ferguson - Law student and journalist with interest in politics and sport. I am the Toronto correspondent for American Soccer News and a regular ...
