Anyway and anyways are often confused, but anyway is the standard and correct form in formal and professional English. Anyways is informal and mostly used in casual speech. In most writing situations, anyway is the safer and preferred choice.
Many people pause while writing and ask themselves, “Should I write anyway or anyways?” This confusion is very common because both words sound natural in conversation, and many people hear them used interchangeably in daily speech. However, when it comes to correct and clear English writing, the difference matters.
People search for “anyway or anyways” because they want to know which word is correct, which one sounds professional, and which one should be avoided in formal writing. Using the wrong word can make writing feel careless, especially in emails, essays, or professional documents.
This article explains the difference between anyway and anyways in a clear and simple way. You will learn grammar rules, reasons behind the confusion, real-world usage, common mistakes, detailed examples, practice exercises, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you will know exactly when to use anyway and when to avoid anyways.
Quick Answer
Anyway is the correct and standard word in English.
Anyways is informal and should be avoided in formal writing.
Simple Examples
- I will go anyway.
- Anyway, let us continue the discussion.
- Anyways, I did not care. (informal)
Easy Rule
If you are writing professionally or formally, always use anyway.
Grammar Rules Explained Clearly
Meaning of Anyway
Anyway is an adverb.
It means despite something, in any case, or moving the conversation forward.
It is used to show contrast, continuation, or conclusion.
Examples
- It was raining, but we went anyway.
- Anyway, let us move on.
- I did not agree, but I helped anyway.
Meaning of Anyways
Anyways is also an adverb, but it is considered informal.
It is commonly used in casual speech and relaxed conversation.
In standard English grammar, anyways is not preferred.
Examples
- Anyways, what are you doing tonight
- I was tired anyways
These sentences sound natural in speech but are weak in formal writing.
Why People Confuse Anyway or Anyways
Influence of Spoken English
In daily conversation, people often add extra sounds to words. Anyways feels more natural when speaking, so people carry it into writing.
Similar Words That End With S
Words like always, sometimes, and forwards make people assume anyways is also correct.
Informal Online Writing
Social media, texting, and casual chats encourage relaxed language and grammar.
Regional Usage
In some regions, especially in North America, anyways is heard more often, even though it is still informal.
Anyway or Anyways in Real Life Usage
Daily Conversation
- I was tired, but I went anyway.
- Anyways, I did not like the movie.
Emails
- Anyway, I will send the report tomorrow.
- Anyways, let me know your decision. (not recommended)
Social Media
- Anyway, today was a long day.
- Anyways, that is just my opinion.
Formal Writing
- Anyway, the results show improvement.
- He refused at first but agreed anyway.
In formal writing, anyway is always preferred.
British and American English Usage
Both British and American English follow the same rule.
- Anyway is standard and correct.
- Anyways is informal and non-standard.
Examples
- UK: Anyway, we decided to leave early.
- US: Anyway, we decided to leave early.
Both regions treat anyways as casual speech.
Which One Should You Use
If you are unsure, always choose anyway.
Use anyway when:
- Writing emails
- Writing essays
- Writing articles
- Writing professional messages
Avoid anyways unless you are writing dialogue or very casual content.
Common Mistakes and Corrections
Wrong: Anyways, I will call you later.
Correct: Anyway, I will call you later.
Wrong: I was busy anyways.
Correct: I was busy anyway.
Wrong: Anyways, the meeting is canceled.
Correct: Anyway, the meeting is canceled.
Anyway or Anyways in Sentences
Simple Sentences
- I will help anyway.
- Anyway, let us start.
Medium Sentences
- He did not agree, but he came anyway.
- Anyway, we should finish this today.
Formal Sentences
- The proposal was rejected, but we proceeded anyway.
- Anyway, the final decision rests with management.
Different Uses of Anyway
Showing Contrast
- It was difficult, but I tried anyway.
Changing Topic
- Anyway, let us talk about something else.
Ending a Conversation
- Anyway, I have to leave now.
Showing Determination
- I will do it anyway.
Is Anyways Ever Acceptable
In very casual conversation, anyways is sometimes used, especially in speech.
However:
- It is not recommended in writing
- It weakens professional tone
- It may look grammatically careless
Using anyway is always safer.
Comparison With Similar Words
People often confuse anyway with other adverbs.
- Anyway vs Anyways
- Anyway vs Anyhow
- Anyway vs Nonetheless
Among these, anyway remains the most neutral and widely accepted.
Anyway or Anyways in Writing Tone
Professional Tone
Always use anyway.
Neutral Tone
Anyway is preferred.
Casual Tone
Anyways may appear, but anyway is still better.
Practice Exercises
Fill in the Blanks
- It was late, but I stayed ______.
Answer: anyway - ______, let us continue the meeting.
Answer: anyway - I did not like it ______.
Answer: anyway - ______, what do you think about this
Answer: anyway
Choose the Correct Word
- (Anyway / Anyways) I will finish the task.
Answer: Anyway - He was tired but helped (anyway / anyways).
Answer: anyway - (Anyway / Anyways) let us move on.
Answer: Anyway - I was busy (anyway / anyways).
Answer: anyway
Anyway or Anyways in Longer Examples
Email Example
Anyway, I wanted to follow up on our last conversation and confirm the details.
Essay Example
The plan had several flaws. Anyway, it provided valuable insights.
Conversation Example
I was unsure at first. Anyway, I decided to try.
FAQs
What is the difference between anyway and anyways?
Anyway is the standard and correct form, while anyways is informal and casual.
Is anyways grammatically wrong?
It is not completely wrong in speech, but it is not recommended in formal writing.
Can I use anyways in professional writing?
No, you should always use anyway in professional or academic writing.
Do British and American English treat these words differently?
No, both prefer anyway and consider anyways informal.
Why do people say anyways so often?
Because it sounds natural in speech and is influenced by casual conversation.
Is anyway formal English?
Yes, anyway is acceptable in both formal and informal writing.
Can anyway start a sentence?
Yes, it is commonly used at the beginning of sentences.
Conclusion
The confusion between anyway and anyways comes from spoken language habits, but the correct choice in writing is clear. Anyway is the standard, accepted, and professional word. Anyways is informal and should be avoided in serious or formal writing.
Using anyway improves clarity, tone, and credibility. Whether you are writing an email, an article, or an academic paper, choosing the correct word shows attention to detail and strong language skills.
When in doubt, remember this simple rule: always use anyway. It works in every situation and never sounds incorrect. With practice and awareness, this common mistake becomes easy to avoid.
James Anderson is a blogger at EchoWordss.com, dedicated to making vocabulary and synonyms simple and accessible. His insights help readers strengthen their language and communicate more effectively.
