What Does “Count among sth” Mean?
“Count among sth” means to consider someone or something as part of a particular group or category.
Introduction
The phrase “count among sth” is a useful expression in English that helps you talk about inclusion within a group or category. When you say someone or something “counts among” a group, you are recognizing them as a member or part of that group. This phrase is common in both spoken and written English, especially when describing people, objects, or ideas that belong to a certain category. Understanding the count among sth meaning is essential for expressing belonging or association clearly and naturally.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: count among something
- Type: transitive
- Level: B2
- Short meaning: to be considered part of a group or category
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Count among sth” is an inseparable phrasal verb. The pattern is:
- Subject + count + among + object (group/category)
Example: “She counts among the best students.”
Note: You cannot separate the verb and the preposition (e.g., *count the best among her* is incorrect).
How to Use “Count among sth”?
Use “count among sth” when you want to say that someone or something is included in a group or category. It often emphasizes respect, importance, or membership.
It is commonly used with people, achievements, qualities, or items that belong to a specific set.
Examples
- She counts among the top athletes in the country.
- Many famous writers count among the alumni of this university.
- This painting counts among the most valuable in the gallery.
- We count him among our closest friends.
- Count among the reasons for success is hard work and dedication.
These examples show “count among sth in a sentence” clearly.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: He counts the best among his friends.
Correct: He counts among the best of his friends. - Incorrect: They count him in the team.
Correct: They count him among the team.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar expressions include “be considered,” “be regarded as,” and “be counted as.” However, “count among” specifically stresses inclusion within a group.
- Count among: Emphasizes membership in a group.
- Be considered: Focuses on opinion or judgment.
- Be regarded as: Similar to “be considered,” more formal.
Example: “She counts among the best players” (membership). “She is considered the best player” (opinion).
Common Collocations
- Count among the best
- Count among the top
- Count among the leaders
- Count among the reasons
- Count among friends
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of count among sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: Did you know Sarah counts among the most talented musicians here?
Ben: Really? I didn’t realize she was that good.
Anna: Yes, everyone counts her among the top performers in the city.
Practice
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase:
He ______ the greatest scientists of his time.
- a) counts among
- b) counts on
- c) counts for
Answer: a) counts among
FAQs
- Q: Is “count among” separable?
A: No, it is inseparable and must be used together. - Q: Can I use “count among” with objects?
A: Yes, it can be used with people, objects, or ideas. - Q: What is the difference between “count among” and “count on”?
A: “Count among” means to be part of a group, while “count on” means to rely on someone or something. - Q: Is “count among” formal or informal?
A: It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
