Part of Speech

Adverb

Pronunciation

/ˈɛniweɪz/

Definitions

• Used informally in place of "anyway" to signal a transition, continuation, or conclusion.
• Indicates that something is done regardless of previous circumstances.

Usage Examples

1. I don't think this will work, but anyways, let's give it a try.
2. We were late, but anyways, we made it to the meeting.
3. She was upset, but anyways, we continued with the plan.

Etymology

The word "anyways" is an informal variation of "anyway," primarily used in American and Canadian English. The form "anyways" has been used in speech and writing for over a century, though it has historically been considered colloquial or nonstandard. Despite its nonstandard usage, it remains common in everyday informal communication.

Synonyms

• Anyway
• In any case
• At any rate

Antonyms

• Never
• Not at all
• Under no circumstances

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "anyways" is commonly used in casual speech, particularly in the northern and western regions.
• In Canadian English, "anyways" is also frequently used informally, though some regions favor "anyway" as the preferred term.
• In British English, "anyways" is generally avoided in formal contexts, though it may still appear in colloquial speech among younger speakers.

Historical Usage

The use of "anyways" dates back to at least the early 20th century, though it has historically been considered less formal than "anyway." The word has become increasingly accepted in modern informal communication, particularly in American and Canadian dialects. While "anyways" has faced criticism from prescriptive grammar authorities, it remains a common and widely recognized term in casual conversation.

Cultural Nuances

The word "anyways" is often used to shift or ease the flow of conversation, especially in contexts where the speaker wants to downplay a previous statement or return to a previous topic. Its use signals a more relaxed or informal tone and is a staple of everyday speech in North America. In some regions, it is seen as a marker of colloquial speech, while in others, it may be considered a sign of poor grammar.

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