between states

USAGE SUMMARY

"between states" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that occurs between or involves two different states or conditions. Example: The negotiation process between states can often be slow and complicated.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

There was huge variation between states.

The Economist

There was wide variation between states.

The Economist

"It was a state in between states.

The New Yorker

"I don't think the disparities between states are widely appreciated".

The New York Times

But it is briskly redefined as "a war between states".

The Guardian - Opinion

Wars proliferate between states, warlords, gangs and faiths.

The Guardian - Opinion

The disparities between states are fodder for parole's critics.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is that between states and statelessness or, to put it another way, between states and borderless or globalised phenomena.

The Guardian - Opinion

Do we need uniform medication rules between states?

The New York Times

Relations between states will need reform as well.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

She explains, "I'm obsessed with the concept of being in-between states, of being in transition.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing agreements or collaborations, use "between states" to clearly indicate that multiple states are involved, ensuring you specify the nature of the relationship or interaction.

Common error

Be careful not to use "between states" when referring to relationships involving more than two states. In those cases, "among states" is more appropriate to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "between states" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying nouns or verbs to indicate a relationship, interaction, or comparison involving multiple states. Ludwig shows various examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "between states" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase, primarily functioning to denote relationships or comparisons involving multiple states. Ludwig confirms that it is commonly employed across diverse fields such as news, science, and encyclopedias, with neutral register. It's crucial to differentiate its usage from "among states", which applies to three or more entities, and to be mindful of potential ambiguity. Overall, "between states" is a reliable phrase for specifying the context of interstate interactions and distinctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

among states

Refers to a relationship involving more than two states, whereas the original phrase could imply only two.

across state lines

Emphasizes the boundary or border aspect when something extends from one state to another.

interstate

Functions as an adjective to describe something that involves or connects different states.

involving multiple states

More descriptive and less concise, specifying that several states are part of the subject.

state-to-state

Highlights the direct connection or comparison from one specific state to another.

from state to state

Indicates a progression or movement across different states.

spanning states

Suggests something that extends or covers multiple states geographically.

connecting states

Focuses on the act of establishing a link or relationship among states.

in the states

Refers to something that exists or occurs within the boundaries of multiple states.

among the different states

More verbose, emphasizing the diversity and individuality of the states involved.

FAQs

How can I use "between states" in a sentence?

You can use "between states" to describe interactions, differences, or agreements involving multiple states. For example: "There are significant disparities between states in terms of healthcare coverage."

What is the difference between "interstate" and "between states"?

"Interstate" is an adjective that describes something that involves or connects different states, while "between states" is a prepositional phrase that specifies a relationship or comparison. You might say "interstate commerce" or "agreements "between states"".

When should I use "among states" instead of "between states"?

Use "among states" when referring to something involving three or more states. "Between states" is typically used for relationships involving only two states, although it can sometimes be used when the number of states is not specified.

What are some common topics discussed in the context of relationships "between states"?

Common topics include laws, economies, agreements, and comparisons. For instance, you might discuss the differences in gun laws "between states" or economic competition "between states".