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Directions: In the following items, there are two sentences S1 and S2, based on commonly used word(s), which are underlined. Read the two sentences carefully and mark the response that denotes the correct use of these words in each of the two sentences and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

S1: The matter was resolved amicably between the group even though there were so many of them.

S2: Among them the two never have problems sharing what they have.

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2024 Maths Question Paper (01-Sep-2024)
The correct answer is S1 is wrong and S2 is right

Understanding 'Between' vs. 'Among' in Sentences

This explanation focuses on the correct usage of the prepositions 'between' and 'among', as used in the provided sentences S1 and S2.

Grammatical Rules for 'Between' and 'Among'

Understanding the distinction between 'between' and 'among' is crucial for clear communication.

  • 'Between' is typically used when referring to:
    • Two distinct items, people, or groups. For example, "The agreement was between John and Mary."
    • Relationships involving specific, separate entities, even if more than two. For example, "The trade negotiations between the three countries were complex." (Here, the focus is on the specific relationships *between* each pair of countries).
  • 'Among' is generally used when referring to:
    • More than two items, people, or groups where the entities are considered part of a collective or indistinct mass. For example, "He distributed the sweets among the children."
    • A situation involving general distribution or belonging within a larger group.

Analysis of Sentence S1

Sentence S1 states: "The matter was resolved amicably between the group even though there were so many of them."

  • The preposition 'between' is used here with "the group".
  • The phrase "so many of them" indicates that the group consists of multiple, numerous individuals, likely more than two.
  • In cases involving a large, indistinct group (more than two people considered collectively), the preposition 'among' is typically preferred over 'between'.
  • Using 'between' suggests a focus on pairwise relationships, which doesn't seem to be the primary intention when referring to resolving a matter "between the group" as a whole, especially when the group is large.
  • Therefore, the use of 'between' in Sentence S1 is likely incorrect based on standard grammatical guidelines.

Analysis of Sentence S2

Sentence S2 states: "Among them the two never have problems sharing what they have."

  • The preposition 'Among' is used here with "them", referring to a larger group of unspecified size (implied to be more than two).
  • The sentence then specifies a particular pair ("the two") within that larger group ("them").
  • Using 'Among' is appropriate here because it sets the context within the larger collective group ("them"). It correctly indicates that within this larger set, a specific situation applies to "the two".
  • This structure effectively contrasts the general situation within the group with the specific dynamic of a subset (the pair).
  • Thus, the use of 'Among' in Sentence S2 is considered correct.

Conclusion on Sentence Correctness

Based on the analysis of standard prepositional usage:

  • Sentence S1 uses 'between' incorrectly for a large group.
  • Sentence S2 uses 'Among' correctly to establish context within a larger group.

This indicates that S1 is wrong and S2 is right.

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