Among and amongst are two forms of the same preposition. Both can mean surrounded by, included in, or shared within a group. Among is much more common in American English.
Use either form for the same relationship
- I found a peach pencil among the lavender ones. The peach pencil was part of the group.
- I found a peach pencil amongst the lavender ones. The meaning stays the same. The longer form can sound more formal or literary.
Choose the form that fits your writing
In everyday American prose, among is a natural default. Keep amongst when quoting someone who used it or when it suits the register you want. If you’re deciding which preposition best describes a relationship within a group, see among vs. between.
