The English language is filled with words that sound similar but have distinct meanings and uses. A common area of confusion is the difference between “anyway,” “anyways,” and “any way.” While they may seem interchangeable, each has its own nuances and appropriate contexts.
In this guide, we’ll break down the meanings and uses of these words to help you use them correctly in your writing and speech.
Anyway
“Anyway” is an adverb used to indicate a return to a previous topic, to add information, or to emphasize a point. It can also be used to show that something happens despite obstacles or challenges.
Examples
- We got lost on the way to the party, but we made it there anyway.
- I don’t really like the movie, but I’ll watch it with you anyway.
- She didn’t study for the exam, but she passed anyway.
- I know you’re busy, but can you help me with this project anyway?
- He was tired after a long day at work, but he went to the gym anyway.
Usage
“Anyway” is used to:
- Return to a previous topic: “ Anyway, as I was saying…”
- Add information: “She didn’t study, but she passed anyway.”
- Emphasize a point: “I don’t like it, but I’ll do it anyway.”
- Show persistence or determination: “He was tired, but he went to the gym anyway.”
Anyways
“Anyways” is an informal variation of “anyway” and is often used in casual conversation. It has the same meaning as “anyway” but is considered less formal and is typically avoided in formal writing.
Examples
- I didn’t really want to go to the party, but I went anyways.
- He was running late, but he made it to the meeting anyways.
- She forgot her umbrella, but she went out in the rain anyways.
- I know you’re busy, but can you help me with this project anyways?
- He was tired after a long day at work, but he went to the gym anyways.
Usage
“Anyways” is used in the same way as “anyway” but is considered informal and is typically avoided in formal writing.
Any Way
“Any way” is a phrase that means “in any manner” or “by any means.” It is used to indicate that something can be done in multiple ways or to express a willingness to do something by any means necessary.
Examples
- Is there any way you can help me with this project?
- We’ll find any way to make it work.
- Is there any way to fix this problem?
- I’ll do it any way you want.
- Is there any way to get there faster?
Usage
“Any way” is used to:
- Indicate that something can be done in multiple ways: “I’ll do it any way you want.”
- Express a willingness to do something by any means necessary: “We’ll find any way to make it work.”
- Ask if something is possible: “Is there any way to fix this problem?”
Differences Between “Anyway,” “Anyways,” and “Any Way”
| Word | Meaning | Usage | Example |
| Anyway | Despite something; return to a previous topic; add information; emphasize a point | Formal and informal writing and speech | “I don’t like it, but I’ll do it anyway.” |
| Anyways | Informal variation of “anyway” | Informal speech and writing | “I didn’t really want to go, but I went anyways.” |
| Any way | In any manner; by any means | Formal and informal writing and speech | “Is there any way to fix this problem?” |
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between “anyway,” “anyways,” and “any way” can help you use these words correctly in your writing and speech.
While “anyway” and “anyways” have similar meanings, “anyways” is considered informal and should be avoided in formal writing. “Any way,” on the other hand, is a phrase that means “in any manner” or “by any means” and is used to indicate that something can be done in multiple ways or to express a willingness to do something by any means necessary.