anyway

Everyday

1. Anyway means even so; in spite of something: «It was raining, but we went anyway». tree →
2. Anyway is used to change the subject or come back to the main point in talking: «Anyway, what did you do today?» tree →
3. Anyway can mean in any case, whatever happens. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday talk, «anyway» moves the conversation on or ends it. In stories it shows a character doing something despite a problem or warning — sometimes brave, sometimes foolish. Phrases: «but anyway», «thanks anyway» (thank you even though you could not help).

Examples

• It was cold, but we swam anyway. tree →
• Anyway, let's get back to work. tree →
• I don't need it, but thanks anyway. tree →
• He was told not to, but he did it anyway. tree →
• The shop was closed — we didn't have money anyway. tree →
• Anyway, how was your weekend? tree →
• I knew the answer anyway. tree →
• It might rain, but we'll play anyway. tree →

Note

One word «anyway». «Any way» (two words) means any method: «Is there any way to help?» «Anyways» is informal, mostly American speech; avoid it in writing.