Use of Some and Any
What to do? What to do?
The use of SOME and ANY is confusing for new English learners.
Here are a few tips to get you on the right track.
| SOME | We use “some” in positive sentences. We use some for both countable and uncountable nouns. Example: I have some friends. |
| ANY | We use “any” in negative sentences or questions. We use any for both countable and uncountable nouns. Example: Do you have any cheese? – He doesn’t have any friends in Chicago. |
| EXCEPTION! | We use “some” in questions when offering or requesting something that is there. Example: Would you like some bread? (offer) – Could I have some water? (request) |
| ANY | We use “any” in negative sentences or questions. We use any for both countable and uncountable nouns. Example: Do you have any cheese? – He doesn’t have any friends in Chicago. |
| SOMEBODY, SOMEWHERE, SOMETHING | We use “some” words – somebody, someone, somewhere and something – in positive sentences. Example: He lives somewhere near here. |
| ANYBODY, ANYWHERE, ANYTHING | We use “any” words – anybody, anyone, anywhere and anything – in negative sentences or questions. Example: Do you know anything about that boy? – She doesn’t have anywhere to go. |
Related articles
- Noun (slideshare.net)
- 22-2-12 // Word: RESERVE (leipoyu.wordpress.com)
- Less and Fewer (dailypost.wordpress.com)
