Among Vs Amongst

Among vs Amongst

In writing, the simple choice between among and amongst allows the author to help set a theme through their decision.
There is no "wrong" choice in choosing between among oramongst 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 vsAmongst
"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 usethe 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 andamongst (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 wordto 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 AmongstThe 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 "hemoved 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 choicesfor 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.
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