What Is Their Difference?
In this part, we are going to discuss the meanings and uses of 'something' and 'anything'. We will look at their similarities and differences.
Anything vs. Something
'Anything' and 'Something' are generally used as pronouns. In other words, they replace a noun.
'Something' refers to a specific ineffective or uncertain thing.
'Anything' can refer to whatever thing no matter what it is. It's usually used in negative sentences.
'Something' is used more often in positive sentences, while 'anything' is often used in negative sentences.
But in interrogative sentences, they both can be used with a slight subtle change in meaning. When asking a question with 'something', the speaker usually expects a positive answer, while the one with anything expects a negative one.
Did
you
hear
Here, the speaker is somehow expecting to hear the affirmative answer.
Did
you
hear
Here, the speaker is somehow expecting to hear the negative answer.
Look at some more examples. Compare the use of 'anything' and 'something' in these sentences:
Did
he
get
you
Is
there
'Something' can also be used as a noun. It means a person or a thing of importance or effect.
That
kid
is
really
In the English language, 'anything' is used when we are not sure if the thing we are talking about actually exists.
Is
there
So, basically, when you don't care what a thing is, you can use 'anything'.
Do
we
have
The speaker is saying they can drink tea, coffee, water, anything at all. It doesn't matter what.
'Let's
listen
to
some
music
.
'
'You
can
listen
to
