any

UK: ˈɛni | US: ˈɛni

Definition

  1. adj. one or some, no matter which

  2. pron. any one or more persons or things

  3. adv. to any extent or degree

Structure
an <one>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "any" originates from Old English "ǣnig," derived from "ān" (one) + the suffix "-ig" (adjective-forming). Over time, "ǣnig" evolved into Middle English "ani" or "eny," eventually becoming "any" in Modern English. The core idea of "one" (an) persists in its meaning of indefinite quantity or selection, while the suffix "-y" (from "-ig") generalizes it as an adjective or pronoun.

Examples

  1. Do you have any questions about the assignment?

  2. You can choose any book from the shelf.

  3. I don’t see any reason to delay the project.

  4. Is there any milk left in the fridge?

  5. She didn’t show any interest in the proposal.