English for Today by Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (Dr GAB)
ANYWAY, ANY WAY ANYWAYS
I didn’t get there early but I still did the needful ~any way~ (nonstandard).
I didn’t get there early but I still did the needful *anyway* (standard).
“Anyway” means “nonetheless” or “regardless”.
Many young persons want to make money ~anyway~ they can (nonstandard).
Many young persons want to make money *any way* they can (standard).
When written as two words, “any way” can be replaced by “in any manner” or by “by any means”.
*Anyway*, if you think you can live *any way* you wish, you’ve got the consequences to face later. ✔️
Note that while “anyway” is used in formal writing, “anyways” is used in colloquial speech or informal writing.
GAB
