amongst
5 synonyms and 3 antonyms for amongst, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Prep — A more formal or old-fashioned variant of "among".
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
surrounded by
in the midst of
Antonyms
Etymology
Formed by adding an extra "-t" ending to "amongs" (itself "among" plus a genitive "-s"), a common pattern in older English words like "against".
Full origin of amongst →Frequently asked questions
What does “amongst” mean?
The word “amongst” means a more formal or old-fashioned variant of "among". In plain terms, exactly the same meaning as "among", just with a slightly more formal or British feel.
How do you pronounce “amongst”?
“Amongst” is pronounced uh-MUHNGST (/əˈmʌŋst/ in IPA).
How do you use “amongst” in a sentence?
Here is “amongst” used in a sentence: “He was regarded as a leader amongst his peers.”
What is the opposite of “amongst”?
The opposite of “amongst” — its antonyms — are outside, outwith and without.
What part of speech is “amongst”?
“Amongst” is a preposition.
Is “amongst” a common word?
“Amongst” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between amongst and among?
Amongst and among mean exactly the same thing and can be used interchangeably. Amongst is simply a more formal or old-fashioned variant, while among is the more common everyday choice, especially in American English.
Is amongst correct in American English?
Amongst is grammatically correct but sounds noticeably formal or British to American readers, who overwhelmingly prefer among. In American writing, among is the safer and more natural choice in almost every context.
When should you use amongst instead of among?
Choose amongst only when you deliberately want a more formal, literary, or traditional tone; otherwise among is preferable because it reads as simpler and more modern. Neither is more accurate than the other, so the decision is purely about style and register.
