English grammar can be confusing for non-native English speakers. In this guide, I will provide some exercises to help improve your understanding of “some” and “any.” I’ve also created a printable PDF for you to use as a reference. I hope you find these exercises helpful!
When to Use “Some” and “Any”
The words “some” and “any” are used to describe a quantity, but there’s an important distinction between the two. “Some” refers to a specific group or quantity, while “any” can be used either to describe a specific group or quantity or to refer to all group members.
For example, if you say, “I need some apples,” you are referring to a specific number of apples. In contrast, if you say, “Can I have any apples?,” you are either referring to all the available apples or a specific number of apples, depending on the context.
Here are some more examples of how these words can be used:
- Some of the cookies were missing from the jar. (Referring to a specific number)
- I’d like to try some of your cookies. (Referring to a specific number)
- Do we have any milk left? (Referring to all the milk)
- Is there any way we can correct this at all? (Referring to all the possible ways)