Among vs Between
What's the difference?
The old rule "between for two, among for more" is a good start — with one useful exception for distinct, named things.
Quick answer
Use "between" for two things (between A and B) or distinct items you name; use "among" for three or more seen as a group. Two → between, a group → among.
Compared side by side
(preposition) for two things, or for distinct, individual items.
- “This is between you and me.”
- “What's the difference between the two plans?”
(preposition) for three or more things seen together as a group.
- “She felt safe among friends.”
- “Share the prize money among the team.”
How to remember it
"between" = two, or distinct items you could list; "among" = a group of three or more you don't count one by one.
Frequently asked
Is "between" only for two things?
Mostly, but not always. Use "between" for distinct, individual items even if there are more than two: "a treaty between five nations" — because each nation is named and separate. Use "among" when they're an undivided group.
Which for "among us" vs "between us"?
"Between us" usually means just the two of us (a private matter). "Among us" means within a larger group: "there's a traitor among us."