Word
any
US/ˈɛni/
UK/ˈɛni/
Definition
adj. one or more of something, no matter which one it is. You often use it in questions or with 'not' to talk about a zero amount.
adj. one, some, or every or all, regardless of quantity or identity. Functions as a quantifier in negative statements, interrogative clauses, and conditional sentences.
Examples
“Do you have any milk in the fridge?”
“I checked the cupboard but I could not find any clean glasses for the guests.”
“Any student who wishes to participate in the advanced seminar must submit a written proposal by the end of the week to be considered for a seat.”
Examples
simple
“Do you have any milk in the fridge?”
contextual
“I checked the cupboard but I could not find any clean glasses for the guests.”
complex
“Any student who wishes to participate in the advanced seminar must submit a written proposal by the end of the week to be considered for a seat.”
Usage
Commonly used in negative sentences and questions instead of 'some'. When used in affirmative sentences, it emphasizes that the specific choice does not matter.
Pitfall
I don't have some money.
I don't have any money.
In standard English, 'any' is used instead of 'some' in negative sentences to indicate a zero quantity.
Confusables
Some indicates a positive existence or specific quantity, while any indicates an open-ended or non-existent quantity in negatives and questions.
RememberSome for 'Yes'; Any for 'No' or 'Maybe'.
Word family
Related words
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/any