So, this morning I read a twitter update that used the word anyone, and I immediately/mentally put the word someone in there. And it sounded right. Buuut, as you can see below, it clearly wasn’t.

In fact, it seems they are never interchangeable. Ever.

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SOME: We use “some” in positive sentences. We use some for both countable and uncountable nouns. Example: I have some friends.

ANY: We use “any” in negative sentences or questions. We use any for both countable and uncountable nouns. Example: Do you have any cheese? – He doesn’t have any friends in Chicago.

EXCEPTION!: We use “some” in questions when offering or requesting something that is there. Example: Would you like some bread? (offer) – Could I have some water? (request)

SOMEBODY, SOMEWHERE, SOMETHING: We use “some” words – somebody, someone, somewhere and something – in positive sentences. Example: He lives somewhere near here.

ANYBODY, ANYWHERE, ANYTHING: We use “any” words – anybody, anyone, anywhere and anything – in negative sentences or questions. Example: Do you know anything about that boy? – She doesn’t have anywhere to go.

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Silly language. Trix are for kids. (If you want to see the article wherefrom this was stolen, you can find it here).

I also find it strange how, even with how complex and non-intuitive the English language is, it still happens to be the most-spoken second language in the world. Interesting, isn’t it, how political and economic power tie so closely with cultural influence. Perhaps in the next few years we’ll notice a global shift to an Asian cultural dominance. Perhaps, perhaps.

Just another ramble.