English Translation
You have the choice between black tea, coffee, or milk.
When do you use “entre” and when do you use “parmi” ?
“Entre” can be used in many different ways / have several meanings (not “parmi”).
If we focus on the meaning that is similar to “parmi”, a shortcut would be:
- entre → similar to between
- parmi → similar to among/amongst
“Entre” is often used when comparing/chosing between 2 items, but as shown in this example, it can be used with 3+ items as well.
I think the main thing is:
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“Entre” is used when you consider each item individually. You are comparing or choosing between specific items. IOW, the focus is on individual items (whether they belong to a group or not).
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With “parmi”, the items you are talking about are part of a group, , and the group is the main focus.
Vous avez le choix entre du thé noir, du café ou du lait.
→ We are listing / naming each item individually => entre.
Parmi les élèves, Marie est la plus studieuse.
→ Marie belongs to a group “les élèves”, which is the main focus => parmi.
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