Anyway or Anyways: Which is Correct and How to Use Them
The English language, with its rich history and diverse influences, often presents subtle yet significant challenges to learners. One such challenge lies in the proper use of “anyway” and “anyways.” While both words are used in casual conversation, understanding the nuances of their usage is crucial for effective communication. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide, demystifying the differences between “anyway” and “anyways,” exploring their appropriate contexts, and equipping you with the knowledge to use them confidently. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply an English enthusiast, this guide will enhance your understanding of this common grammatical point.
This article will explore the correct usage of “anyway” and address the common misconception surrounding “anyways.” We will delve into their definitions, structural roles, and practical applications. Furthermore, we’ll examine the contexts in which each word is appropriate, highlighting common errors and providing clear examples to illustrate the correct usage. By the end of this article, you will have a solid understanding of when and how to use “anyway” and be able to confidently avoid the pitfall of using “anyways” incorrectly.
Table of Contents
- Definition of Anyway and Anyways
- Structural Breakdown
- Usage of Anyway
- Usage of Anyways
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of Anyway and Anyways
To understand the correct usage, we must first define the terms. Anyway is an adverb that serves several functions in English. It can be used to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement, to change the subject, to dismiss a previous point, or to indicate agreement. It typically implies a return to a previous line of thought or a shift in focus.
Anyways, on the other hand, is generally considered nonstandard English. While it is commonly used in informal speech, particularly in certain dialects, it is not considered grammatically correct in formal writing or speaking. The addition of the ‘s’ is often seen as redundant because “anyway” already functions as an adverb.
Structural Breakdown
Anyway is an adverb, and adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It is formed from the words “any” and “way,” indicating direction or manner. It functions to connect ideas, provide transitions, or add emphasis to a statement. Its placement in a sentence can vary depending on the intended emphasis, but it often appears at the beginning or end of a clause.
The structure of “anyways” is simply “anyway” with an added ‘s.’ This addition, while common in some dialects and informal speech, doesn’t align with standard English grammar rules for adverb formation. Adverbs do not typically take plural endings in English.
Usage of Anyway
The word “anyway” has several distinct uses, each contributing to the flow and coherence of communication. Understanding these different applications is essential for mastering its proper usage.
Resuming a Topic
One common use of “anyway” is to signal a return to a previous topic after a digression. It helps to refocus the conversation or narrative and bring it back to the original point of discussion.
Changing the Subject
“Anyway” can also be used to smoothly transition to a new topic. This is particularly useful when the current conversation has reached a natural conclusion or when a change of subject is desired.
Dismissing a Previous Statement
Sometimes, “anyway” is used to downplay or dismiss a previous statement. In this context, it suggests that the previous point is not particularly important or relevant to the current discussion.
Indicating Agreement
In some cases, “anyway” can be used to express agreement or acceptance of a previous statement or decision. It can convey a sense of resignation or acceptance of the situation.
Usage of Anyways
As mentioned earlier, “anyways” is generally considered nonstandard English. Its use is typically confined to informal speech and certain dialects. In formal writing and speaking, “anyway” is the preferred and grammatically correct option. While “anyways” might be understood in casual conversation, it’s best to avoid it in professional or academic settings.
Examples
To further clarify the usage of “anyway” and “anyways,” let’s examine a variety of examples. The following tables provide context and demonstrate the appropriate use of “anyway,” while also illustrating why “anyways” is generally incorrect.
Anyway Examples
The following table provides examples of how “anyway” can be used in various contexts, including resuming a topic, changing the subject, dismissing a previous statement, and indicating agreement.
| Category | Sentence |
|---|---|
| Resuming a Topic | We were talking about your trip to Italy. Anyway, how was the food? |
| Resuming a Topic | I got sidetracked. Anyway, what I wanted to say was… |
| Resuming a Topic | So, back to the original plan. Anyway, we need to book the venue. |
| Resuming a Topic | I apologize for the interruption. Anyway, as I was saying… |
| Resuming a Topic | That’s enough about my problems. Anyway, how have you been? |
| Changing the Subject | That was an interesting discussion. Anyway, did you see the game last night? |
| Changing the Subject | I’m tired of talking about work. Anyway, let’s order some pizza. |
| Changing the Subject | This is getting depressing. Anyway, I have some good news to share. |
| Changing the Subject | We’ve spent too long on this issue. Anyway, what’s next on the agenda? |
| Changing the Subject | I don’t want to dwell on this. Anyway, let’s move on. |
| Dismissing a Previous Statement | It doesn’t matter what he said. Anyway, I’m not going to let it bother me. |
| Dismissing a Previous Statement | The weather might be bad, but anyway, we’re still going to the beach. |
| Dismissing a Previous Statement | I might be wrong, but anyway, that’s my opinion. |
| Dismissing a Previous Statement | It’s too late to change it now. Anyway, it’s not that important. |
| Dismissing a Previous Statement | I don’t really care what they think. Anyway, I’m doing what I want. |
| Indicating Agreement | I guess we have no choice. Anyway, let’s just do it. |
| Indicating Agreement | I’m not happy about it, but anyway, it’s the best option we have. |
| Indicating Agreement | It’s not ideal, but anyway, we’ll make it work. |
| Indicating Agreement | I don’t like it, but anyway, I’ll go along with it. |
| Indicating Agreement | It’s not perfect, but anyway, it’s good enough. |
| General Use | Anyway, I should probably get going. |
| General Use | Anyway, thanks for your help. |
| General Use | Anyway, that’s all I wanted to say. |
| General Use | Anyway, where were we? |
| General Use | Anyway, it was nice talking to you. |
| General Use | Anyway, I think we should consider all options. |
| General Use | Anyway, the main point is that we need to act now. |
| General Use | Anyway, let’s not waste any more time and get started. |
| General Use | Anyway, this is a great opportunity for us. |
| General Use | Anyway, I’m excited about the future. |
The table above shows the variety of ways “anyway” can be incorporated into sentences. It effectively connects thoughts and can alter the direction of a conversation.
Anyways Examples (and Why They’re Mostly Incorrect)
While “anyways” is often used in informal speech, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s generally considered nonstandard. The following table provides examples of sentences using “anyways,” followed by the grammatically correct alternative using “anyway.”
| Incorrect (Anyways) | Correct (Anyway) | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Anyways, I was thinking about going to the movies. | Anyway, I was thinking about going to the movies. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, it doesn’t really matter. | Anyway, it doesn’t really matter. | Dismissing a statement |
| Anyways, as I said before, I’m not interested. | Anyway, as I said before, I’m not interested. | Resuming a topic |
| Anyways, let’s just forget about it. | Anyway, let’s just forget about it. | Dismissing a statement |
| Anyways, I’m glad we had this conversation. | Anyway, I’m glad we had this conversation. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, I have to leave now. | Anyway, I have to leave now. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, that’s my final decision. | Anyway, that’s my final decision. | Concluding a discussion |
| Anyways, it was a good try. | Anyway, it was a good try. | Dismissing a statement |
| Anyways, we should probably start packing. | Anyway, we should probably start packing. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, I’m not sure what to do. | Anyway, I’m not sure what to do. | Expressing uncertainty |
| Anyways, I don’t have time for this. | Anyway, I don’t have time for this. | Dismissing a statement |
| Anyways, I’m just saying. | Anyway, I’m just saying. | Adding a comment |
| Anyways, it’s your choice. | Anyway, it’s your choice. | Indicating agreement/acceptance |
| Anyways, it is what it is. | Anyway, it is what it is. | Accepting a situation |
| Anyways, don’t worry about it. | Anyway, don’t worry about it. | Dismissing a statement |
| Anyways, I appreciate your help. | Anyway, I appreciate your help. | Expressing gratitude |
| Anyways, I’m looking forward to it. | Anyway, I’m looking forward to it. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, it’s going to be fine. | Anyway, it’s going to be fine. | Offering reassurance |
| Anyways, I’m here if you need me. | Anyway, I’m here if you need me. | Offering support |
| Anyways, it’s time to move on. | Anyway, it’s time to move on. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, it was nice meeting you. | Anyway, it was nice meeting you. | Concluding a conversation |
| Anyways, I should get back to work. | Anyway, I should get back to work. | Changing the subject |
| Anyways, let’s think about it later. | Anyway, let’s think about it later. | Postponing a discussion |
| Anyways, I’m just kidding. | Anyway, I’m just kidding. | Clarifying intention |
| Anyways, that’s the story. | Anyway, that’s the story. | Concluding a narrative |
| Anyways, let’s give it a try. | Anyway, let’s give it a try. | Suggesting an action |
| Anyways, I’m ready to go. | Anyway, I’m ready to go. | Indicating readiness |
| Anyways, what’s done is done. | Anyway, what’s done is done. | Accepting the past |
| Anyways, it’s all good. | Anyway, it’s all good. | Expressing satisfaction |
As the table illustrates, “anyway” is the preferred choice in formal settings. Using “anyways” can detract from the clarity and professionalism of your communication.
Usage Rules
The primary rule to remember is that “anyway” is the standard and grammatically correct form. Avoid using “anyways” in formal writing, academic papers, professional emails, or any situation where precision and correctness are paramount. In casual conversation, the use of “anyways” might be acceptable, depending on the context and your audience, but it’s generally safer to stick to “anyway.”
Here are some additional guidelines:
- Formal Writing: Always use “anyway.”
- Informal Speech: “Anyways” may be acceptable, but “anyway” is always a safe choice.
- Professional Settings: Use “anyway” to maintain a professional tone.
- Academic Writing: “Anyway” is the only acceptable form.
Using “anyway” demonstrates a command of standard English and enhances your credibility as a communicator.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is using “anyways” in formal contexts. This can make your writing or speech appear less polished and professional. Another common mistake is using “anyway” incorrectly, such as using it to introduce a topic rather than change or resume one.
Here’s a table illustrating common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Anyways, let’s discuss the budget. | Anyway, let’s discuss the budget. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyway, this is the first time I’ve met you. | By the way, this is the first time I’ve met you. | “Anyway” is used to change or resume a topic, not introduce it. |
| Anyway, because of the rain, the game was canceled. | As a result of the rain, the game was canceled. | “Anyway” is not used to indicate cause and effect. |
| I don’t like the cake. Anyways, I ate it. | I don’t like the cake. Anyway, I ate it. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyways, thank you for listening. | Anyway, thank you for listening. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyways, I’ll be there at 8. | Anyway, I’ll be there at 8. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyways, what did you do last weekend? | Anyway, what did you do last weekend? | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyways, it’s not a big deal. | Anyway, it’s not a big deal. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyways, I’m excited about the trip. | Anyway, I’m excited about the trip. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
| Anyways, let’s try something new. | Anyway, let’s try something new. | “Anyways” is nonstandard. |
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can avoid them and use “anyway” correctly and confidently.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding, complete the following practice exercises. Choose the correct word (“anyway” or “anyways”) to fill in the blank. If “anyways” is incorrect, explain why.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. _____, I’m going to the store. Do you need anything? | Anyway, I’m going to the store. Do you need anything? |
| 2. _____, it doesn’t matter what happened. | Anyway, it doesn’t matter what happened. |
| 3. _____, I told him I wasn’t interested. | Anyway, I told him I wasn’t interested. |
| 4. _____, let’s move on to the next topic. | Anyway, let’s move on to the next topic. |
| 5. _____, I appreciate your help. | Anyway, I appreciate your help. |
| 6. (Informal) _____, I was just kidding. | Anyway, I was just kidding. (Although “anyways” might be heard, “anyway” is still preferred.) |
| 7. _____, I’m not sure what to do next. | Anyway, I’m not sure what to do next. |
| 8. _____, we should probably get started. | Anyway, we should probably get started. |
| 9. _____, that’s all I wanted to say. | Anyway, that’s all I wanted to say. |
| 10. _____, I hope you have a great day. | Anyway, I hope you have a great day. |
Now, let’s try some more challenging exercises. Rewrite the following sentences, correcting any incorrect uses of “anyway” or “anyways.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Anyways, the meeting is over. | Anyway, the meeting is over. |
| 2. Anyway, I’m excited to tell you this news for the first time! | By the way, I’m excited to tell you this news! |
| 3. I didn’t want to go, anyways. | I didn’t want to go, anyway. |
| 4. Anyways, as I mentioned earlier, I can’t make it. | Anyway, as I mentioned earlier, I can’t make it. |
| 5. Anyway, because of the traffic, I was late. | Due to the traffic, I was late. (Or: I was late. Anyway, it was because of the traffic.) |
| 6. Anyways, it was a pleasure meeting you all. | Anyway, it was a pleasure meeting you all. |
| 7. Anyways, I don’t think it’s a good idea. | Anyway, I don’t think it’s a good idea. |
| 8. Anyways, let’s just agree to disagree. | Anyway, let’s just agree to disagree. |
| 9. Anyways, I’m here to help. | Anyway, I’m here to help. |
| 10. Anyways, it’s your decision to make. | Anyway, it’s your decision to make. |
These exercises will help you internalize the correct usage of “anyway” and avoid the common pitfall of using “anyways.”
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, it’s important to understand the historical context of “anyways.” While it’s now considered nonstandard, it has been used in English for centuries, particularly in certain regional dialects. Understanding this history can provide a more nuanced perspective on its usage. Additionally, exploring the sociolinguistic factors that influence the use of “anyways” can offer insights into language variation and change. Analyzing literary works from different periods can reveal how the usage of “anyway” and “anyways” has evolved over time.
Furthermore, comparing the usage of “anyway” with similar adverbs like “nevertheless” or “however” can enhance your understanding of its specific function and nuances. For example, while “anyway” often signals a change of subject or a dismissal of a previous point, “nevertheless” typically introduces a contrasting statement. Understanding these subtle differences can help you choose the most appropriate adverb for each situation.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the usage of “anyway” and “anyways”:
- Is “anyways” ever correct?
While “anyways” is commonly used in informal speech and certain dialects, it’s generally considered nonstandard English. In formal writing and speaking, “anyway” is the preferred and grammatically correct option. It really depends on the context and audience. If you are writing an academic paper, “anyway” is the only correct choice.
- Why is “anyways” considered incorrect?
The addition of the ‘s’ to “anyway” is seen as redundant because “anyway” already functions as an adverb. Adverbs do not typically take plural endings in English. Therefore, “anyways” doesn’t align with standard English grammar rules.
- Can I use “anyways” in a casual conversation?
In casual conversation, the use of “anyways” might be acceptable, depending on the context and your audience. However, it’s generally safer to stick to “anyway,” as it’s always grammatically correct and won’t be perceived as incorrect by anyone.
- What are some alternatives to “anyway”?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as “nevertheless,” “however,” “still,” “regardless,” “in any case,” or “by the way.” The best alternative will depend on the specific function you want to convey.
- How can I avoid using “anyways” by mistake?
The best way to avoid using “anyways” by mistake is to consciously focus on using “anyway” in all contexts. Practice using “anyway” in your writing and speech, and pay attention to how others use it. Over time, it will become second nature.
- Is “anyway” always at the beginning of a sentence?
No, “anyway” can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, depending on the intended emphasis. For example, “Anyway, I’m going to the store” and “I’m going to the store, anyway” are both grammatically correct, but they have slightly different nuances.
- Does the meaning of ‘anyway’ change based on its position in the sentence?
The core meaning stays the same, but the emphasis shifts. At the beginning, it signals a transition or resumption more strongly. At the end, it can feel like an afterthought or a gentle dismissal.
- What’s the difference between ‘anyway’ and ‘by the way’?
“Anyway” is used to change the subject back to something, or dismiss a previous statement. “By the way” is generally used to introduce something new and only slightly related to the topic being discussed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while “anyways” might be heard in casual conversation, “anyway” is the standard and grammatically correct choice. Understanding the nuances of its usage, including its ability to resume a topic, change the subject, dismiss a previous statement, or indicate agreement, is crucial for effective communication. By avoiding the common mistake of using “anyways” in formal contexts, you can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing and speech.
Remember to practice using “anyway” in various contexts to solidify your understanding. Pay attention to how it’s used in written and spoken English, and consciously choose “anyway” over “anyways” in formal settings. By mastering this subtle but important grammatical point, you can communicate with greater confidence and precision. Keep practicing, and you’ll soon find that using “anyway” correctly becomes second nature.
