If you’ve ever wondered whether “anyway” or “anyways” is the correct word, you’re not alone. Both forms appear in conversation and online writing, but they are not equally appropriate in every context.
Anyway is the standard and widely accepted form in both American and British English. Anyways is considered informal and is mainly used in casual speech or conversational writing. It is generally best to avoid anyways in formal, academic, or professional writing.
Quick Answer
- Anyway = Standard and correct for all contexts.
- Anyways = Informal variant used mainly in casual conversation.
Correct Examples
- Anyway, let’s continue with the meeting.
- Anyway, I decided to stay home.
Informal Example
- Anyways, I’ll see you tomorrow.
What Does Anyway Mean?
Anyway is an adverb used to:
- change the subject
- continue a conversation
- return to the main point
- mean “regardless” or “in any case”
It is appropriate in both formal and informal English.
Examples of Anyway in Sentences
- Anyway, let’s get back to work.
- I wasn’t feeling well, but I went anyway.
- Anyway, that’s all I wanted to say.
- We enjoyed the trip anyway.
- Anyway, thanks for your help.
What Does Anyways Mean?
Anyways has the same meaning as anyway, but it is an informal, conversational variant.
It is common in casual speech, especially in North American English, but many style guides recommend avoiding it in formal writing.
Examples of Anyways in Sentences
- Anyways, I’ll call you later.
- Anyways, that’s what happened.
- Anyways, let’s move on.
These sentences are natural in casual conversation but are better written with anyway in professional or academic contexts.
Anyway vs Anyways Comparison Table
| Feature | Anyway | Anyways |
|---|---|---|
| Standard English | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Informal |
| Formal writing | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Academic writing | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Casual conversation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Business communication | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not recommended |
Word Comparison
When to Use Anyway
Use anyway in:
- business emails
- academic papers
- professional writing
- books
- news articles
- formal conversations
- everyday speech
Examples
- Anyway, we reached an agreement.
- She completed the project anyway.
When to Use Anyways
Use anyways only in:
- casual conversations
- text messages
- social media
- informal dialogue
- creative writing where natural speech is important
Examples
- Anyways, what’s for dinner?
- Anyways, I’ll talk to you later.
Common Mistakes
Using Anyways in Formal Writing
Less appropriate:
- Anyways, the report is attached.
Better:
- Anyway, the report is attached.
Assuming Anyways Is Incorrect
Anyways isn’t grammatically wrong, but it is nonstandard in formal English. For polished writing, anyway is the preferred choice.
Common Phrases
Anyway
- anyway, let’s continue
- thanks anyway
- anyway you look at it
- anyway, moving on
- anyway, that’s enough
Anyways
- anyways, see you later
- anyways, let’s go
- anyways, thanks
Synonyms for Anyway
Depending on the context, you can also use:
- nevertheless
- regardless
- in any case
- still
- at any rate
Example
- In any case, we should finish the project today.
American vs British English Differences
American English
- Anyway is standard.
- Anyways is heard in informal speech but is generally avoided in formal writing.
British English
- Anyway is the accepted standard.
- Anyways is much less common and is often viewed as nonstandard.
Why Correct Word Choice Matters
Using anyway in formal writing helps:
- improve readability
- maintain professionalism
- follow style guides
- build credibility
- communicate clearly
Using anyways in business or academic writing may make your work sound overly casual.
Tips to Remember the Difference
Think “Formal = Anyway”
Whenever you’re writing for school, work, or publication, choose:
- anyway
Reserve “Anyways” for Casual Speech
If you’re texting a friend or writing dialogue, anyways may sound natural.
Practice With Sentences
- Anyway, let’s begin the presentation.
- Thanks anyway for your help.
- Anyways, I’ll see you tomorrow. (Casual conversation only.)
(FAQs)
Which is correct: anyway or anyways?
Anyway is the standard and preferred form. Anyways is an informal variant.
Is anyways a real word?
Yes. It is recognized as an informal word, especially in North American English.
Is anyways grammatically incorrect?
Not exactly. It is acceptable in casual speech but is generally discouraged in formal writing.
Can I use anyways in an email?
For professional emails, use anyway instead.
Is anyway used in both British and American English?
Yes. Anyway is standard in both varieties of English.
Why do people say anyways?
Many native speakers use it naturally in informal conversation for emphasis or as a conversational habit.
What is the difference between anyway and anyways?
They have the same meaning, but anyway is standard, while anyways is informal.
How can I remember which one to use?
Remember:
- Work or school = anyway
- Casual chat = anyway or, less formally, anyways
Final Summary
The difference between anyway vs anyways is mainly one of formality. Anyway is the standard word and is appropriate in all types of writing and speech.
Anyways is an informal variant that is common in casual conversation but should generally be avoided in professional, academic, or formal writing.
When in doubt, choose anyway.
Actionable Takeaway
For professional, academic, and everyday writing, use:
- anyway ✅
Use anyways only in informal conversation or dialogue when a casual tone is intended.
Memory trick:
- Anyway = Always OK
- Anyways = Casual conversations only
