Understanding the Informal Side of English: The Word "Anyways"
You have likely heard the word anyways used in casual conversation, perhaps at the end of a long story or as a way to change the subject. While it is a common part of spoken English, it carries a unique status in the language that often confuses learners and students alike. Learning how and when to use it will help you sound more natural in informal settings, though it is important to know when to leave it out of your formal writing.
Meanings and Usage
At its core, anyways functions as an adverb. It is a colloquial variant of the standard word "anyway." In most cases, it is used to signal that a speaker is returning to a main point after a digression, or simply to wrap up a thought so the conversation can move forward.
People often use anyways to indicate that a previous statement explains or supports their current point, or to dismiss minor details and get back to the "big picture."
Common contexts for "anyways":
- Transitioning: Returning to a story after being interrupted.
- Closing a thought: Concluding a narrative when you realize you have been rambling.
- Dismissive agreement: Accepting a situation despite previous objections.
Grammar Patterns and Examples
Grammatically, anyways is almost always used as an adverb at the beginning or end of a clause. Because it is highly informal, it is rarely found in academic essays, professional reports, or formal journalism.
Here are a few ways you might hear it used in daily life:
- "I wasn't really planning on going to the party, but anyways, I ended up having a great time."
- "The traffic was terrible and I got a flat tire, but anyways, I made it to the meeting on time."
- "It doesn't really matter which movie we pick; we’re going to fall asleep during it anyways."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most important rule to remember is that anyways is strictly for speech and casual digital communication (like text messages). Avoid using it in formal writing. If you are writing a cover letter, an essay, or a business email, always use the standard form: anyway.
Another point to note is the common temptation to add an "s" to words that don't need them. While "anyways" has become accepted in spoken English, adding an "s" to other adverbs—like "somewheres" or "nowheres"—is widely considered grammatically incorrect by native speakers. It is best to stick to anyways as the only exception to this rule.
FAQ
Is "anyways" considered a real word?
Yes, it is a real word found in most dictionaries. However, it is classified as informal or colloquial. It is not considered standard for formal English.
Is there a difference between "anyway" and "anyways"?
They mean the exact same thing. The only difference is the level of formality. "Anyway" is safer and can be used in any situation, while "anyways" should be reserved for friends, family, and casual settings.
Should I use "anyways" in an English exam?
No. Unless you are specifically asked to write a dialogue for a character who speaks informally, you should avoid using it in an exam. Stick to "anyway" to ensure your writing remains professional and standard.
Conclusion
Anyways is a helpful, expressive tool for conversational English. It acts as a bridge in our speech, allowing us to pivot between thoughts and keep conversations flowing smoothly. By understanding its informal nature and reserving it for the right moments, you can communicate with the ease and comfort of a native speaker. Just remember: keep it for the chat, and keep it out of the essay!