Anyway
/ˈɛniweɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn any case; despite other factors; nonetheless.
/ˈɛniweɪ/
Regardless; in spite of that; nevertheless.
I didn't feel well; anyway, I went to work.
💡 Simply: No matter what happened before.
More Examples
It's raining; anyway, we will go out.
How It's Used
"I tried to explain, but anyway, he didn't listen."
"The project was delayed; anyway, we finished it eventually."
To introduce a different topic or return to a previous one.
/ˈɛniweɪ/
To change the subject or return to a prior topic.
That's a long story; anyway, I'm here now.
💡 Simply: Switching the subject or going back to a previous point.
More Examples
So many things happened; anyway, what's important is the outcome.
How It's Used
"We talked about the weather; anyway, what about that movie?"
From 'any' + 'way'. It evolved from a phrase meaning 'in any way' or 'by any means' to its current use as a discourse marker.
Early uses emphasized the 'any' aspect, meaning 'in any manner or way'. The discourse marker usage is a later development.
Memory tip
Think 'any' way you slice it, it still means...