Some and Any

The Basic Rule

Use some in positive sentences. Use any in negative sentences.

This also applies when the meaning is negative, even without “not”:

• He left the office without any explanation. (= he didn’t give any explanation)
• She refused to sign anything before reading the contract. (= she didn’t sign anything)
• The budget is tight. There’s hardly any money left for training. (= almost no money)

Some and Any in Questions

Both some and any can appear in questions, but they carry different meanings.

Use some when you expect the answer is yes

You already believe or assume the thing exists:

• Are you waiting for someone? (I can see you checking your phone — I think you are)
• Did someone call while I was in the meeting? (I noticed a missed call)

Use some when offering or requesting

• Would you like some coffee before we start? (there is coffee available)
• Can I have some time off next week? (I’m requesting something)
• Could you send me some details about the new policy?

Use any when you genuinely don’t know

• Do you have any experience with this software? (maybe yes, maybe no)
• Has anyone finished the quarterly review yet? (I have no idea)
• Is there anything else on the agenda?

Any After “If”

Use any in sentences with if, or in sentences that carry the idea of “if”:

• If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
• Let me know if anyone needs a copy of the report.
• I apologise for any inconvenience caused by the delay. (= if I have caused any inconvenience)
• The manager wants to speak to anyone who attended the training. (= if there is anyone who attended)

Any Meaning “It Doesn’t Matter Which”

Any has a second meaning: “it doesn’t matter which one.” In this case, it appears in positive sentences:

• You can use any meeting room — they’re all free this afternoon.
• Feel free to call me any time you need help.
• *Anyone with a company badge can access the building.*
• What should I wear to the client dinner? — Anything smart. It’s not too formal.

Compare the two meanings:

Somebody / Anyone + They

Somebody, someone, anybody, and anyone are grammatically singular, but we use they/them/their to refer back to them:

• *Someone left their laptop in the conference room.* (= his or her laptop)
• If anybody wants to join the project, they should talk to the team lead. (= he or she should)

Quick Self-Check