Anyway

Definition

Anyway is an adverb used to indicate a continuation of an action or thought regardless of circumstances. It can also convey emphasis or a shift in conversation.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛniˌweɪ/
• Respelling: EN-ee-way

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛnɪweɪ/
• Respelling: EN-ee-way

Etymology

The word "anyway" is a compound of "any" and "way," first appearing in Middle English as "any weye" in the sense of "in any manner." It developed into its current adverbial form in Early Modern English.

Derivatives

• Anyways (informal, adverb)
• Anyway you look at it (phrase)
• Anyway the wind blows (idiomatic phrase)
• Get on anyway (informal phrase)
• Moving anyway (informal phrase)

Synonyms

• Nonetheless
• Regardless
• However

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "anyway" is used to continue a statement, often after a contrasting statement, or to change the topic. For example, "The weather was bad, but we went hiking anyway," or "Anyway, back to what we were discussing."

Related Terms

• Nevertheless: Used to convey continuation or emphasis despite a contrary fact.
• Nonetheless: Similar to "nevertheless," meaning "despite that."
• Regardless: Indicates carrying on without concern for obstacles.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• In any case; regardless: Used to indicate that an action is taken despite circumstances.
  • Example: "They told her not to go, but she went anyway."
• Used to change or return to a previous topic: Often used as a discourse marker in conversation.
  • Example: "Anyway, let’s get back to the main point."