What's the Difference Between 'Amid' and 'Amidst'?

In this blog post we look at when to use amid and when to use amidst.

'Amid' or 'Amidst'?

Amid and amidst are both prepositions that mean "in the midst of," or "surrounded by." They are often used to describe a situation in which something is happening or being done in the middle of a group or a place.

There is no difference in meaning between amid and amidst. Both words can be used interchangeably.

For example:

  • The city was bustling with activity amid the holiday season.

  • The politician gave a speech amidst the crowded room.

Amid is more common in American English, while amidst is more common in British English. However, both forms are used in both varieties of English, and there is no strict rule governing their use. It is generally a matter of personal preference or writing style.

Examples of Amid in a Sentence

Here are ten example sentences using the word amid:

  1. The teacher had to raise her voice to be heard amid the noise of the crowded classroom.

  2. The small village was nestled amid the rolling hills and forests of the countryside.

  3. Amid the chaos of the natural disaster, the rescue team worked tirelessly to save lives.

  4. The team celebrated their victory amid cheers and applause from the crowd.

  5. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, many people have been forced to work from home.

  6. The company struggled to stay afloat amid intense competition in the market.

  7. Amid the ruins of the ancient city, archaeologists discovered a treasure trove of artifacts.

  8. The soldier stood tall and proud amid the battlefield, ready to defend his country.

  9. Amid the flurry of activity at the airport, it was easy to get lost in the crowd.

  10. Amid the beauty of the mountain range, it was hard to believe that danger lurked around every corner.

Examples of Amidst in a Sentence

Here are ten examples using the word amidst:

  1. The team huddled together amidst the pouring rain, trying to stay dry.

  2. The travelers marveled at the beautiful scenery amidst the winding mountain roads.

  3. The actor took center stage amidst the bright lights and applause of the theater.

  4. The artist created a masterpiece amidst the chaos of the crowded studio.

  5. The scientist worked tirelessly amidst the complex equipment and data of the laboratory.

  6. The politician gave a stirring speech amidst the crowded rally.

  7. The hikers navigated the treacherous trails amidst the rugged wilderness.

  8. The musician performed amidst the flashing lights and loud music of the concert.

  9. The chef cooked a delicious meal amidst the bustling kitchen of the restaurant.

  10. The children played and laughed amidst the colorful playground equipment.


Amid or Amidst
Amid or Amidst