English Reference

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

any vs some

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

ADJECTIVE

any(A2)

ADVERB

PRONOUN

Related words

somein any case

Grammar

Modifying comparatives

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 C1.225–549EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Pre-2
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference