Anybody

Definition

Anybody is a pronoun that refers to any person or individual, often used in questions or negative statements. It can also mean anyone at all, without specifying a particular individual.

Parts of Speech

• Pronoun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛniˌbɑdi/
• Respelling: EN-ee-bah-dee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛnɪˌbɒdi/
• Respelling: EN-ee-bod-ee

The pronunciation of "anybody" differs slightly between American and British English, particularly in the final syllable.

Etymology

The word "anybody" originates from Middle English, derived from the combination of "any," meaning "whichever or whatever," and "body," a term historically referring to a person or individual. The word evolved to mean "any person" in questions and negative sentences.

Derivatives

• Anybody’s (possessive form)
• Anybody else (phrase)
• Anybody at all (phrase)
• Anybody who (phrase)
• Anybody can (phrase)

Synonyms

• Anyone
• Anybody else
• Any person

Antonyms

• Nobody
• No one
• None

Usage

The term "anybody" is often used in questions, negative statements, or to indicate an unspecified individual, such as "Is there anybody here who can help?" or "I don’t know anybody at the party."

Related Terms

• Anyone: An alternative pronoun meaning any person or any individual.
• Somebody: Refers to an unspecified person or individual.
• Everyone: Refers to all people collectively.

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• Any person or individual, often used in questions and negative statements: Refers to an unspecified individual in general terms.
  • Example: "Can anybody help me with this task?"
• Anyone at all, without reference to a particular person: Used to emphasize the lack of specification.
  • Example: "It’s open to anybody who is interested."