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between
/bɪˈtwiːn/
in the space separating two objects or points
The park is located between the library and the school.
The park is physically situated in the space that separates the library from the school.
neutral
in the space separating two or more objects, places, or points
She squeezed herself between the two cars to cross the street.
She positioned herself in the narrow space separating the two cars to cross.
The meeting is scheduled between 2 PM and 4 PM.
The meeting is set to occur during the time period that separates 2 PM from 4 PM.
Used to indicate a position or time that separates two other positions or times. Often implies a relationship of separation or connection.
neutral
shared by or involving two or more parties
The agreement was reached between the two companies.
The decision was mutually made by the two companies.
There is a strong bond between the siblings.
The siblings share a close emotional connection.
Indicates a relationship or interaction involving two or more parties.
neutral
in the period separating two events or times
He fell asleep between dinner and dessert.
He slept during the time that separated dinner from dessert.
Refers to a time period that separates two events.
Collocations
between you and meused to indicate something said in confidencein betweenin the space or time separating two thingsbetween the devil and the deep blue seafacing a difficult choice between two equally bad options
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Using 'between' vs. 'among'
Use 'between' when referring to two distinct items or parties. Use 'among' for more than two items or when the items are not clearly distinct. Example: 'The secret was shared between John and Mary' (two people) vs. 'The secret was shared among the group' (more than two people).
Gold Rule
Prepositional Usage
Always use 'between' with 'and' when referring to two distinct items or parties. Example: 'The treaty was signed between France and Germany.' Avoid using 'between' with 'to' or 'with' in this context.
Word Origin
Old English 'betweonum', from 'be-' (by) + 'tweonum' (dative plural of 'tweon' meaning 'two'). The word evolved from the sense of 'in the space separating two' to broader uses indicating relationships or time periods.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in spatial, temporal, and figurative contexts. Often followed by 'and' when referring to two distinct points or parties. Avoid using 'between' for more than two items; 'among' is preferred in such cases.
Word Breakdown
be-
by or near
prefix-tween
two
rootEnglish Dictionary