between

/bɪˈtwiːn/

preposition★Beginner— in the space separating two points

general

In the space separating two points or objects.

The river flows between the two mountains.

This describes the river's position relative to the mountains.

💡

Often used to describe spatial relationships or divisions.

general

Shared by or involving two or more parties.

There was a misunderstanding between the two friends.

This indicates a shared issue or conflict.

💡

Can also imply a relationship or interaction.

Collocations

between you and meconfidential information shared with someonebetween a rock and a hard placein a difficult situation with no good options

in a difficult situation with no good options

confidential information shared with someone

Use 'between' for two items or distinct groups. For more than two, use 'among'.

'Between' is for two items; 'among' is for more than two.

Old English 'betweonum', from 'be-' (by) + 'tweonum' (two). Related to Old Norse 'tveim' (two).

'Between' is typically used for two items or distinct groups. For more than two, 'among' is preferred.

be-

prefix

-tween

two

root

-um

suffix

English Dictionary