You needn’t hurt your head trying to choose between the prepositions among and amongst; you can use them both in all of the same places.
But there is a difference in style, between the US and the UK.
The best advice, if you’re not sure, is to use among.
Amongst has an older, more high-class, and therefore more pretentious sound, especially in America, where it is used much less often than in the UK. However, contrary to what you may hear, both words are used in both nations.
Among sounds alright in any context. Even in the UK, amongst is too formal for “low-style”—slang, street talk, or personal talk—but it sounds good in medium to high style contexts in England. In America, amongst can make you sound as if you are trying to “put on airs”—but even in America, it’s okay to use in professional writing.
How to Use "Among"/"Amongst" in a Sentence
- There isn't much experience among the group of specialists when it comes to working with children.
- Among my friends, you are one of the most fun.
- The birds among the trees chirped as the morning progressed.
- Amongst the distinguished guests were the company's two original founders.
- Among the distinguished guests were the President and First Lady.
- Amongst the topics on the list, there are a few others the Professor plans to address.
- Among the party guests, there was a man who had a strange name.
- The two were among the first to arrive.
- It is among the most expensive places to live in the world.
- She is among the most recognizable television personalities in America today.
- One of the reasons why I love to travel is because, among other things, it allows me to get away from annoying neighbor.