In this lesson, we will understand the difference between the quantifiers “some” and “any” and the correct usage of each one of them in a sentence.
“some”
The quantifier “some” is used in affirmative (positive) sentences where the quantity of something is not known in advance.
Note: “some” is used with plural countable nouns.
Examples:
- I have some books on my bookshelf.
- There are some students waiting in the hallway.
- He has some friends coming over for dinner tonight.
“any”
The quantifier “any” is used in negative sentences. This quantifier is also used to quantify plural countable nouns.
Examples:
- I don’t have any books on my bookshelf.
- There aren’t any students waiting in the hallway.
- He doesn’t have any friends coming over for dinner tonight.
Usage in Questions
Generally, “any” is used in questions.
Examples:
- Do you have any plans for the weekend? (Through this question, the speaker is seeking some information)
- Have you seen any good movies lately? (Inquiry)
But “some” can be used when we offer something
Examples:
- Would you like some cake?
- How about some cookies?
- May I offer you some fruits?
- Do you need some plates?
- Would you be interested in some magazines?
When we ask for something or make a request
Examples:
- Could you lend me some books?
- Can you spare some pencils for me?
- Would you mind giving me some plates?
- Can you recommend some restaurants in the area?
- Do you have some ideas for a party theme?
When we suggest something
Examples:
- How about trying some new recipes?
- Shall we invite some friends over for a game night?
- What do you think about buying some plants for the garden?
- Should we order some pizzas for dinner?
- Would you like to visit some art galleries this weekend?
Summary
| Singular countable nouns | Plural countable nouns | |
| Affirmative | a/an | some |
| Negative | a/an | any |
| questions | a/an | any |
| Exceptions: | ||
| Offer | some | |
| Ask | some | |
| Suggest | some | |
Quiz
- _________ students in the class passed the exam.
- Did you find ________ interesting books at the library?
- Could you lend me _________ books for reading?
- Are there ________ chairs available for the meeting?
- We don’t have _________ fruits in the refrigerator.
When we want to express an indefinite but positive quantity, we use “some” with countable nouns. In this case, we are referring to the students who passed the exam, and we can assume that there were at least a few who did.
when we ask a question expecting a negative or uncertain response, we use “any” with countable nouns. In this case, we are asking if the person found some interesting books in the library, and the answer may be negative or uncertain. This is the reason why “any” is used.
when we make a request or ask for something, we use “some” with countable nouns to express a positive expectation. In this case, the person is asking for some books to read.
When we ask a question expecting a negative or uncertain response, we use “any” with countable nouns. In this case, we are asking if there are chairs available, and the answer may be negative or uncertain.
When we want to express a negative statement or absence, we use “any” with countable nouns. In this case, the speaker is emphasizing that there is no fruit in the refrigerator.
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