Do you feel confused about whether to use ‘anyway’ or ‘anyways’ in your writing or speech?” You’re not alone. Many English speakers and learners search for this topic to clarify proper usage. The difference may seem subtle, but using the right form can make your writing sound professional and polished. People often use both words interchangeably in casual speech, but writers generally prefer “anyway” in formal writing, while speakers use “anyways” more in conversational American English.
People search for “anyway or anyways” because it is a common point of confusion in emails, social media posts, and even professional documents. Choosing the wrong form can make sentences look careless or informal. This guide will help you understand the correct usage, explore the origin of both words, highlight differences between British and American English, and provide practical examples to ensure your writing is clear and correct.
Anyway or Anyways – Quick Answer
Quick Answer: The correct standard form is “anyway”.
- ✅ Example (formal): I wasn’t sure what to do, but I went ahead anyway.
- ❌ Example (formal): I wasn’t sure what to do, but I went ahead anyways.
“Anyways” is considered informal, mainly used in spoken American English. It’s often accepted in casual conversations but is not recommended for professional or academic writing.
The Origin of Anyway or Anyways
The word “anyway” dates back to Middle English, derived from the phrase “in any way”. Over time, it evolved into a single word for smoother usage.
“Anyways” appeared later as a colloquial variation, primarily in American English. The added -s likely came from the tendency in speech to add endings for emphasis or rhythm. While dictionaries acknowledge it as informal, “anyway” remains the historically and grammatically correct choice for most contexts.
British English vs American English Spelling
British English favors “anyway”, while American English allows both “anyway” and “anyways” in casual usage.
| Feature | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Standard form | anyway | anyway |
| Informal variation | rarely used | sometimes: anyways |
| Usage in writing | formal and informal | informal writing & speech |
| Acceptance in professional context | preferred | anyway preferred |
In the UK and other Commonwealth countries, “anyways” is generally avoided, whereas in the US, it appears in spoken English and some informal texts.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Use “anyway” for formal writing, emails, news articles, and professional documents.
- “Anyways” is acceptable in casual American English, social media, or dialogue.
- Global audience: Stick to “anyway” to ensure clarity and professionalism.
Common Mistakes with Anyway or Anyways
Many writers make these mistakes:
- Incorrect: I’ll do it anyways.
Correct: I’ll do it anyway. - Incorrect: Anyways, let’s start the meeting. (informal acceptable in US speech)
Correct: Anyway, let’s start the meeting. - Incorrect: She didn’t like it, anyways she finished it.
Correct: She didn’t like it; anyway, she finished it.
Always remember: “anyway” is safe and professional.
Anyway or Anyways in Everyday Examples
Emails:
- Anyway, I’ll send the report by Friday. ✅
News Articles:
- The project faced delays; anyway, it was completed on time. ✅
Social Media:
- Anyways, I had fun at the party last night. ✅ (informal, US English)
Formal Writing:
- The results were unexpected; anyway, the experiment was successful. ✅
Anyway or Anyways – Google Trends & Usage Data
- Popularity: Searches peak in English-speaking countries, especially the US.
- Context: Queries often relate to proper writing, grammar questions, and social media captions.
- Trends: “Anyway” dominates formal usage; “anyways” is rising in informal American speech.
| Keyword | Popularity (Global) | Usage Context |
|---|---|---|
| anyway | High | Formal writing, speech |
| anyways | Moderate | Informal speech, social media (US) |
FAQs
1. Is it proper to say “anyway” or “anyways”?
“Anyway” is the standard and correct form; “anyways” is informal, mainly in American speech.
2. Why do people add an S to anyway?
The -s was added in spoken American English for emphasis or rhythm, making it informal.
3. What is a nicer way of saying anyways?
You can use “anyway,” “in any case,” or “regardless” as polite alternatives.
4. How to politely say “anyway”?
Simply use “anyway” to transition or continue a conversation professionally.
5. How do I use anyway?
Use it to indicate contrast, continuation, or to return to the main topic: “Anyway, let’s continue.”
6. What is a nicer way to say ASAP?
Use “as soon as possible,” “at your earliest convenience,” or “promptly”.
7. Is it rude when someone says “anyways”?
Not always, but it can sound informal or casual; it’s best avoided in professional contexts.
8. Is anyways grammatically correct on Reddit?
It’s acceptable in casual online posts, but “anyway” is grammatically preferred.
9. When did “anyways” become a word?
“Anyways” emerged in American English in the 18th–19th century as a spoken variation of “anyway.”
Conclusion
Choosing between “anyway” and “anyways” is easier once you understand context and audience. “Anyway” is the standard, safe, and professional choice suitable for writing, business communication, and global readers. “Writers mainly use ‘anyways’ in informal American English and should reserve it for casual conversations, social media posts, or storytelling dialogue. By sticking to “anyway”, you ensure clarity, grammatical correctness, and professionalism. Remember, context matters, but for universal English usage, anyway always wins.
