anything

/ˈɛn.i.θɪŋ/
something, no matter what

You can take anything you want from the store.

You can take any item you want from the store.


general

something, no matter what

Is there anything I can do to help?

Is there any way I can assist?

Used to refer to any item, person, or situation without specification.

informal

something of importance or value

She's not afraid of anything.

She is not afraid of anything important or challenging.

Often used to emphasize bravery or confidence.

Collocations

anything butnot at allanything elsesomething additionalanything like thatsomething similar

Antonyms

Related Phrases

anything goesphrase
anything is allowed

Pro Tip

Usage in Questions

Use 'anything' in questions to ask about unspecified things or situations.

Gold Rule

Negative Contexts

'Anything' is often used in negative sentences to emphasize the absence of something.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'any thing', from Old English 'ænig' (any) + 'þing' (thing).

Usage Notes

Often used in questions and negative sentences to refer to an unspecified thing or situation.

Word Breakdown

any
one, some, or all without specification
root
+
thing
an object or concept
root
English Dictionary