Question

Fill in the blank:
Distribute the mangoes ___________ 10 boys.

• A. between
• B. among
• C. into
• D. over

Hint:

Remember the count rule for distribution prepositions:
For 2 entities $\rightarrow$ Use between.
For 3 or more entities $\rightarrow$ Use among.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Topic Explanation:
Prepositions are functional words that connect nouns, pronouns, or phrases to other words within a sentence.
When expressing distribution, English grammar distinguishes between prepositions based on the number of recipients or entities involved in the action.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The task is to choose the correct preposition to complete the sentence where an item (mangoes) is being distributed to a specific group of people (10 boys).

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The standard rule for prepositions of distribution is:
1. Use between when referring to two distinct items, entities, or individuals.
2. Use among when referring to distribution involving three or more items, entities, or individuals.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Usage of 'Between': Used strictly when distribution or relationship occurs between exactly two parties (e.g., "Distribute the mangoes between the two boys").

• Usage of 'Among': Used when distribution occurs within a group consisting of three or more members ($N \ge 3$).

• Analysis of the Sentence: The group size given in the problem is 10, which is strictly greater than two ($10 > 2$).

• Evaluation of Options:
- Option (A) 'between' is incorrect because it applies to two people.
- Option (B) 'among' is correct because 10 represents a group of more than two people.
- Options (C) 'into' and (D) 'over' do not denote distribution among multiple recipients.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Hence, the correct preposition is 'among', making Option (B) the correct answer.