Confusing Words: Anyway and Anyways (adverb)
Meaning:
Anyway (adverb) is the standard, grammatically correct form. It is used to mean ‘in any case,’ ‘regardless,’ or ‘nevertheless.’ It also functions as a transitional word to resume a previous topic, change the subject, or conclude a conversation. Anyways (adverb) is a nonstandard, colloquial variant of anyway. While extremely common in informal speech, it is widely considered incorrect in formal and professional writing.
Anyway vs Anyways
Clarification: While these two words carry the same essential meaning, their roles are not interchangeable. Their primary difference lies in their level of formality and grammatical acceptance, making it crucial to know which one is appropriate for your audience.
Today’s post clarifies a subtle but important point in English vocabulary: the correct usage of anyway vs. anyways. This is a frequent area of confusion, especially for those mastering the finer points of written and spoken English, causing them to second-guess the right word for the right context.
So, I will clarify their definitions and provide example sentences to ensure you can use these words confidently and correctly.
Anyway vs. Anyways – Difference, Definition & Meaning?
Is it anyway or anyways?
When you encounter anyway and anyways, it’s easy to assume they are simple variations of each other. However, one is a standard, universally accepted word, while the other is an informal version that should be handled with care. Understanding this distinction is key to sounding polished and professional in your communication. Let’s break them down.
Anyway
For any form of writing, be it academic, professional, or even daily communication – anyway is always the correct choice. As a versatile adverb, anyway serves several important functions. It can be used to show contrast or concession (meaning “in spite of”), to resume or change the topic, or to bring a conversation to a close. It is the form recognized as standard English worldwide.
For example,
1. The weather forecast predicted rain, but we decided to go for a picnic anyway. (used to mean regardless)
2. I don’t have much time, but I wanted to call you anyway. (used to mean in any case)
3. Anyway, as I was explaining before the interruption, the project is due on Friday. (used to return to a topic)
4. It might not be the perfect solution, but it’s the best we have anyway. (used for emphasis)
Anyways
You should think of anyways as the informal cousin of anyway. While it is a recognized word, it carries a nonstandard label, meaning it is not considered appropriate for formal writing. Its use is almost entirely restricted to casual, spoken dialogue, particularly in North American English.
Using anyways in an essay or business email is similar to using slang—it signals a very informal tone that is often out of place. So, while you will hear it often in conversation, you should avoid putting it in writing.
1. My phone died, so I couldn’t call. Anyways, what have you been up to? (used informally to switch topics) 2. I told him it was a bad idea, but he did it anyways. (a colloquial alternative for ‘anyway’)
3. Anyways, I’m getting pretty hungry, so let’s order a pizza. (used to move a casual conversation forward)
Got the Difference?
It is clear now!
The rule is simple and effective: always use anyway in your writing. It is correct 100% of the time. Reserve anyways for your informal, spoken conversations with friends or family, if you choose to use it at all. When you need to be clear, correct, and professional, anyway is your only option.
- Anyway = Standard, formal, and correct for all writing.
- Anyways = Nonstandard, informal, and best for casual speech only.
What Did You Learn?
Do not let these two words trip you up. They are not interchangeable in a formal sense. Anyway is the universally accepted standard for all forms of communication. Anyways is an informal variant that signals casualness and should be kept out of your written work. If you are ever in doubt, the choice is simple: always use anyway.