GRAMMAR

unit 1

some/ any

 

The words some and any are used

when the speaker cannot or

does not need/want to tell you

how much or many "things" he

is talking about. 

 

 

The "rules" that follow are for some and any and also somebody/anybody, something/anything, etc.

 

In general, some is used in positive sentences:

 

• I got some nice presents for Christmas this year.

• This job is going to take some time.

• Look! There are some large black birds on the roof of the church.

• You have some butter on your chin.

• If you are hungry, there are some biscuits in the cupboard.

• I'm sure I'll return to Japan some day.

• There is somebody on the phone for you.

• I'd like to go somewhere hot this summer.

 

In general, any is used in negative sentences

 

• I didn't get any nice presents for Christmas this year.

• I looked in the cupboard but I couldn't find any biscuits.

• I don't need any help.

• She's so rude. No wonder she doesn't have any friends.

• I don't have anything to wear to the dance.

• I'm not hungry. I don't want anything to eat.

 

and questions:

 

 

• Do you have any brothers or sisters?

• Did you catch any fish?

• Have you seen any good films recently?

• Does anyone know the answer?

• Are you going anywhere this Christmas?

•  

 

BUT, the use of some/any is a little more complicated. Following are two common occasions when the above "rules" are "broken":

 

1. We can use some in questions when offering/requesting:

 

• Would you like some more tea?

• Could I have some milk, please?

• Do you want something to eat

 

2. We use some when we already know that the answer to the question is "yes"

 

• Have you got some money?

• Can you give me some sugar, please?

 

3. We use any in positive sentences when we mean it doesn't matter which ..:

 

• You can come and ask for my help any time.

• Which book shall I read? - Any one. It's up to you.

• You can sit anywhere but here. This is my seat!