English Reference

Word

anytime

Phoneticsany·time

US/ˈɛniˌtaɪm/

UK/ˈɛnɪtˌaɪm/

Adverb of time

Definitions

01at any time

A2 · Elementary

adv. at any time or at a moment that you choose.

adv. at an unspecified or arbitrary point in time; used to indicate that an event is not restricted to a specific schedule.

“You can call me anytime if you need help with your homework.”

“The digital platform allows subscribers to stream their favourite documentaries anytime, regardless of their geographical location or time zone.”

Usage

Often used as a single-word adverb to modify a verb, though some formal style guides prefer the two-word 'any time'.

Pitfall

I can meet you any time.

I can meet you anytime.

While 'any time' (two words) is always correct, 'anytime' (one word) is specifically used as an adverb. Do not use the one-word version after a preposition like 'at'.

Synonyms

wheneverat any moment

Antonyms

02suitable for any time

C1 · Advanced Informal

adj. useful or suitable for any time of the day or year.

adj. not restricted to or associated with a particular time or season.

“This jacket is a great anytime piece of clothing for any weather.”

“The marketing team is looking for an anytime snack that appeals to consumers both as a breakfast replacement and a late-night treat.”

Synonyms

all-hoursversatile

Confusables

anytime vs any time

Anytime is an adverb meaning whenever; any time is a noun phrase used after prepositions or to indicate a specific amount of time.

RememberIf you can add 'at' before it, use two words.

Etymology

From Middle English any time, ony tyme, from Old English ǣniġum tīman, equivalent to any + time.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADJECTIVE

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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