Commonly misused/misspelled words and phrases (Part 8)

Here are some more words I see misused all the time:

Among vs. between

Wrong: The spoils were divided between Three-fingered Pete, Matt, and Lefty.
Right: The spoils were divided among Three-fingered Pete, Matt, and Lefty.

If you’re referring to two people or places use between (as in “It came down to a choice between John and Mary.”). If more than two, use among. (“The revenues have to be shared among the Chicago, London, and Paris branches.”)

Your vs. you’re

Wrong: Your crazy!
Right: You’re crazy!

This one is so simple I’m amazed at how often I see them confused. You’re is short for “you are.” That’s the only time you should use it. Your means “belonging to you.” Perhaps the confusion is more a matter of typing so fast the writer doesn’t notice the mistake, but it still should be caught in editing.

More next time!

Mark.