Anything vs Everything
What’s the difference between them?
Anything
Meaning:
is an indefinite pronoun used to refer to an unspecified object, person, or quantity.
Examples:
1. Is there anything I can do to help?
2. I'm open to anything at this point.
3. I'll try anything once.
Everything
Meaning:
all things or everyone; all things that exist; the whole of a thing, quantity, or amount.
Examples:
1. Everything in life happens for a reason.
2. I want everything to be perfect for the party.
3. Everything was lost in the fire.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Anything
1. Whatever
2. All
3. Something
4. Whatever thing
1. Nothing
2. Everything Else
3. The Opposite
4. Nothing At All
5. Not A Single Thing
Everything
1. All
2. Entirety
3. Whole
4. Complete
5. Sum Total
1. Nothing
2. Nothing at all
3. Nada
4. Nobody
5. Not a single thing
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Anything", "Everything".
1. 'Anything' refers to one or more unspecified things.
2. 'Everything' refers to all things without exception.
3. Remember that 'anything' refers to a singular or multiple unspecified things, while 'everything' is an all-inclusive reference.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The word 'anything' should be used when referring to a single unspecified item or action, or when referring to a small number of unspecified items or actions. It implies a choice from an unlimited range of possibilities. For example, 'I can have anything I want for dinner.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The word 'everything' is used when referring to all items or actions within a particular context. It implies completeness or totality and is used for emphasis. For example, 'I need to know everything that happened yesterday.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, these two words do not share the same pronunciation. The word 'anything' is pronounced with a short 'a' sound and is often stressed. The word 'everything' is pronounced with a long 'e' sound and is also often stressed.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using these words is confusing them with each other. 'Anything' implies a choice from an unlimited range of possibilities, whereas 'everything' implies completeness or totality. Additionally, people sometimes use 'anything' to refer to a large number of items or actions, when they should use 'everything'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I dont understand __________ about this situation.
2. I want to try __________ I can to make it better.
3. She never does __________ I ask her to do.
4. Im sure he knows __________ about what happened.
5. Hell do __________ possible to help us.
6. Im not sure __________ is going to work out.
1. Anything
Explanation: This choice implies that the speaker is completely befuddled by the situation and has no understanding of any of the details.
2. Everything
Explanation: This choice implies taking all possible actions in order to make the situation better, suggesting a thorough effort.
3. Anything
Explanation: This choice implies that the speaker has asked the subject to perform tasks in the past, but that the subject has never been willing to comply.
4. Everything
Explanation: This choice implies that the speaker is certain that the subject is knowledgeable about all aspects of the situation.
5. Everything
Explanation: This choice implies that the subject will make an exhaustive effort to help the speaker and others.
6. Anything
Explanation: This choice implies uncertainty about the outcome of the situation, as it is not known whether any actions will be successful.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.