| A |
In general we use some (also somebody/someone/something) in positive sentences and any (also anybody etc.) in negative sentences:
| some |
any |
| We bought some flowers. |
We didn't buy any flowers. |
| He's busy. He's got some work to do. |
He's lazy. He never does any work. |
| There's somebody at the door. |
There isn't anybody at the door. |
| I want something to eat. |
I don't want anything to eat. |
We use any in the following sentences because the meaning is negative:
- She went out without any money. (she didn't take any money with her)
- He refused to eat anything. (he didn't eat anything)
- It's a very easy exam. Hardly anybody fails. (= almost nobody fails)
|
| B |
We use both some and any in questions. We use some/somebody/something to talk about a person or thing that we know exists, or we think exists:
- Are you waiting for somebody? (I think you are waiting for somebody)
We use some in questions when we offer or ask for things:
- Would you like something to eat? (there is something to eat)
- Can I have some sugar, please? (there is probably some sugar I can have)
But in most questions, we use any. We do not know if the thing or person exists:
- 'Do you have any luggage?' 'No, I don't.'
- I can't find my bag. Has anybody seen it?
|
| C |
We often use any after if:
- If anyone has any questions, I'll be pleased to answer them.
- Let me know if you need anything.
The following sentences have the idea of if:
- I'm sorry for any trouble I've caused. (= if I have caused any trouble)
- Anyone who wants to do the exam should tell me by Friday. (= if there is anyone)
|
| D |
We also use any with the meaning 'it doesn't matter which':
- You can take any bus. They all go to the centre. (= it doesn't matter which bus you take)
- 'Sing a song.' 'Which song shall I sing?' 'Any song. I don't mind.' (= it doesn't matter which song)
- Come and see me any time you want.
We use anybody/anyone/anything/anywhere in the same way:
- We forgot to lock the door. Anybody could have come in.
- 'Let's go out somewhere.' 'Where shall we go?' 'Anywhere. I just want to go out.'
Compare something and anything:
- A: I'm hungry. I want something to eat.
B: What would you like?
A: I don't mind . Anything. (= it doesn't matter what)
|
| E |
Somebody/someone/anybody/anyone are singular words:
- Someone is here to see you.
But we use they/them/their after these words:
- Someone has forgotten their umbrella. (= his or her umbrella)
- If anybody wants to leave early, they can. (= he or she can)
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