Who knew that a simple S could cause so much confusion? Where and when do we use "anyways," and is it the same as "anyway"? We often hear "anyways" in conversations, on the news and read it online, but is it correct? NO, and here is why:
"Anyway" is an adverb meaning regardless. Simply put, "anyway" without an S is correct. Always use it without the S.
"Anyways" with the S is considered slang, and is a part of nonstandard, colloquial, or informal English. Furthermore, since "anyway" is an adverb and it is impossible for adverbs to be plural.
In newspapers or in any example of formal writing, you will almost never see the word "anyways" used. If it is used, like in this New York Times article on the New York City Council "anyways" is used to give the article a much more casual tone.
While the examples below SOUND perfectly fine with "anyways" rather than "anyway" they are correct without the "S.":
1. Anyway, even with all the nice parks, I think that this city is awful.
2. Whose line is it anyway?
3. Even though it costs more, let's go with the hardwood floor anyway.
Enjoy the rest of the week,
The Ginger Team
Wednesday Word: Anyway vs. Anyways
Author: Michael
Date: Jan 9, 2013 | Grammar
Who knew that a simple S could cause so much confusion? Where and when do we use "anyways," and is it the same as "anyway"? We often hear "anyways" in conversations, on the news and read it online, but is it correct? NO, and here is why:
"Anyway" is an adverb meaning regardless. Simply put, "anyway" without an S is correct. Always use it without the S.
"Anyways" with the S is considered slang, and is a part of nonstandard, colloquial, or informal English. Furthermore, since "anyway" is an adverb and it is impossible for adverbs to be plural.
In newspapers or in any example of formal writing, you will almost never see the word "anyways" used. If it is used, like in this New York Times article on the New York City Council "anyways" is used to give the article a much more casual tone.
While the examples below SOUND perfectly fine with "anyways" rather than "anyway" they are correct without the "S.":
1. Anyway, even with all the nice parks, I think that this city is awful.
2. Whose line is it anyway?
3. Even though it costs more, let's go with the hardwood floor anyway.
Enjoy the rest of the week,
The Ginger Team
