In English, we use ‘some’ and ‘any’ when we are unable to mention the quantity of a certain thing in numbers (i.e. exact measures). When we want to show or ask more options of a certain thing, we use ‘Some’. On the other hand, if we are discussing a few or limited things, then we use ‘Any’.

Words which are based on ‘Some’: Somebody, someday, someone, something, somehow, someway, etc.

Words which are based on ‘Any’: Anybody, anyone, anything, anyway, anyhow, etc.



In this article, we will focus on different rules which are to be followed while using ‘Some’ and ‘Any’. Let’s see what those rules say: -

Rule 1: 

Someone, anyone, etc., are all singular words. So they must be used in the language when speaking about one person (i.e. his, her, it's)

E.g. Wrong usage:-If anyone is interested to participate in the competition, they are supposed to send such email to me. 

Right usage:-If anyone is interested to participate in the competition, he/she is supposed to send an email to me. 

Someone has forgotten his/her phone in the classroom.

Rule 2:

Generally, ‘Some’ is used in positive sentences and ‘Any’  in negative sentences.

E.g. I carry some biscuits while travelling.
       I want to share something with you.
       They didn’t accept anything as a gift.

Rule 3:

‘Some’ has been used in questions while asking or offering something.

E.g. Could you please give me some advice?
        Would you like to say something?
        Would you like to take some tea?

Generally, ‘Any’ is used in a sentence when,a specific thing or objective is not being asked.

E.g. 1. Which shopping mall shall I visit this weekend?

Ans. Anyone in your nearest area.

     2. On which topic should I write an article?

Ans. Any of your choice.

So here, it doesn’t matter that which mall has been visited or which topic has been selected.

This article was about the difference between ‘Some’ and ‘Any’. Hope you learned something from the article. For browsing more articles related to anything on English or grammar, just visit our blog site. These articles will help you to acquire practical knowledge to improve your English Communication Skills, especially, spoken English skills. You can join an online spoken English class to improve your English speaking and grasping power.

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