Among vs. Amongst — What's the Difference?

"Among" and "Amongst" may hold identical meanings, serving as prepositions to indicate being surrounded by or being in the company of, but their usage varies primarily due to geographical preferences and the tone of the language. "Among" is predominantly used in American English, deemed more contemporary and is usually preferred in formal writing and spoken English. In contrast, "Amongst" finds its presence more in British English and is often considered somewhat archaic or literary, though it’s still in use and understood globally.

While the choice between "Among" and "Amongst" is often down to personal or regional preference, "Among" is generally perceived as more modern and is more universally accepted, making it a safer choice in diverse and international contexts. "Amongst", though understood, might give a text an old-fashioned or literary flavor, especially to speakers who are more accustomed to American English.

The application of "Among" is wide-ranging and versatile, blending seamlessly into everyday conversation, academic discourse, and formal writing. It's unobtrusive and neutral, not drawing attention to itself, making it a reliable choice for clarity and conciseness. Conversely, "Amongst" might be chosen for stylistic reasons, to convey a certain tone or atmosphere in the language, perhaps to evoke a sense of tradition, formality, or poeticism.

In essence, the distinction between "Among" and "Amongst" lies not in their inherent meaning but in their usage, tone, and geographical preference. "Among" is more universally used and accepted, acting as a subtle and versatile connector in language, whereas "Amongst" might be used for stylistic effect, adding a touch of antiquity or literary elegance to the discourse.