Anyway vs Anyways

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What’s the difference between them?

Anyway

Meaning:

Adverb that means in any case; at any rate; in any event; nevertheless; anyhow; regardless.

Examples:

1. Anyway, I think it's time for us to move on to the next topic.

2. Anyway, I'm glad you're feeling better.

3. Anyway, let's get back to work.

Anyways

Meaning:

Meaning is the same, but is a colloquial spelling and considered incorrect by most dictionaires.

Examples:

1. Anyways, I'm glad we had this conversation.

2. Anyways, I think we should try a different approach.

3. Anyways, I'm running late, so I have to go.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Anyway

Nonetheless

however

There are no direct antonyms for this word.

Anyways

Nonetheless

however

There are no direct antonyms for this word.

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Anyway", "Anyways".

1. Remember that the word 'anyway' is an adverb, while 'anyways' is a colloquialism, used mainly in informal conversation.

2. Use 'anyway' when writing formal English, and 'anyways' when speaking casually.

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Frequently asked questions

What are some common mistakes associated with the words 'Anyway', 'Anyways'?

One of the most common mistakes people make is to use the word 'anyways' in formal writing or speech. This is incorrect, as 'anyways' is an informal usage and should only be used in casual conversations. Another mistake is to use 'anyways' when 'anyway' should be used. For example, 'He finished the task anyways' is incorrect as 'anyway' should be used instead.

When to use the first word 'Anyway'?

'Anyway' is used as an adverb to show that something is unrelated to what was said or done before. It is typically used to express one’s opinion or to emphasize a point. It can also be used, typically in informal speech, as an interjection to express surprise or resignation. For example, 'Anyway, let’s get back to the project.'

When to use the second word 'Anyways'?

'Anyways' is a colloquial form of the word 'anyway'. It is used in the same way as 'anyway' and is mostly used in informal speech, such as in casual conversations. For example, 'Anyways, I’ve got to go now.'

Do the words have the same pronunciation?

'Anyway' and 'anyways' have very similar pronunciations, and they might sound quite alike, especially in casual conversation. However, they are not pronounced exactly the same due to the additional 's' at the end of 'anyways.' Anyway is pronounced /ˈɛniˌweɪ/. Anyways is pronounced /ˈɛniˌweɪz/.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. I told her that we had to leave but she didnt want to go ____.

2. It was raining but we decided to go ____.

3. ____, Im really glad we made the decision to go.

4. He wasnt sure if he should take the job ____.

5. ____, he decided to accept the offer.

6. I dont think it was a good idea ____.

1. Answer: anyway.

Explanation: Anyway is an adverb meaning in any case or regardless; it can be used to emphasize that something is true despite other factors. Anyways is a colloquial word and should be avoided in writing.

2. Answer: anyway.

Explanation: Anyway is an adverb meaning in any case or regardless; it can be used to emphasize that something is true despite other factors. Anyways is a colloquial word and should be avoided in writing.

3. Answer: anyway.

Explanation: Anyway is an adverb meaning in any case or regardless; it can be used to emphasize that something is true despite other factors. Anyways is a colloquial word and should be avoided in writing.

4. Answer: anyway.

Explanation: Anyway is an adverb meaning in any case or regardless; it can be used to emphasize that something is true despite other factors. Anyways is a colloquial word and should be avoided in writing.

5. Answer: anyway.

Explanation: Anyway is an adverb meaning in any case or regardless; it can be used to emphasize that something is true despite other factors. Anyways is a colloquial word and should be avoided in writing.

6. Answer: anyway.

Explanation: Anyway is an adverb meaning in any case or regardless; it can be used to emphasize that something is true despite other factors. Anyways is a colloquial word and should be avoided in writing.

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List of Commonly Confused Words

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