# anyone

/ˈɛniˌwən/ (US) · /ˈɛnɪwˌɒn/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Pronoun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anyone
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

any person at all. You use this in questions or negative sentences when the specific person does not matter.

For teachers: any person of an unspecified group. Functions as an indefinite pronoun; typically used in interrogative and negative clauses, or in affirmative clauses to imply 'no matter who'.

## Examples

- Does anyone have a pen?
- I didn't see anyone I knew at the party, so I left early.
- The competition is open to anyone who wishes to enter, regardless of their previous experience or professional standing in the industry.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Anyone have seen my keys?" but "Has anyone seen my keys?" — As an indefinite pronoun, it requires a singular verb form.

## Usage notes

- Takes a singular verb even when referring to multiple people. In formal writing, 'anyone' is preferred over 'anybody', though they are semantically identical.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.