any things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "any things" is not correct in standard written English.
It is generally not used because "things" is a plural noun and "any" is typically used with uncountable nouns or plural countable nouns without the article "things." Example: "If you have any questions, feel free to ask."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

3. Calculate the cost of things — any things!

The New York Times - Magazine

Were there any things you thought about leaving out?

The New York Times

Are there any things I should have asked you that I didn't?

The Guardian

I can't think of any things I admire about contemporary culture.

The Guardian - Books

Are there any things you think are important that we ought to know now?

The New York Times

We don't have any things to play, and all the time we are staying in our room and it is not safe for us.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Any question, any subject, any thing.

The Guardian

Lisa Marie, any thing to say about that?

The New York Times - Arts

But sadly there is not any thing.

The Guardian

Any thing is possible with God.

Huffington Post

They are idle and they can do any thing.

Conflict and Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "anything" when referring to a single, unspecified item. For multiple items, opt for "any items" or a more specific noun.

Common error

Avoid using "any things" due to its grammatically incorrect structure. Always consider whether you're referring to a singular item (use "anything") or multiple items (use "any items" or a suitable alternative).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "any things" functions as a determiner + noun, attempting to specify a quantity of items. However, it is considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. As Ludwig AI points out, "things" is a plural noun, and "any" is typically used with uncountable nouns or plural countable nouns without the article "things".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "any things" appears frequently, but, as Ludwig AI confirms, it's considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. The correct form is usually "anything" (singular) or "any items" (plural). Despite its common usage, especially in News & Media and Wiki sources, it's advisable to avoid "any things" in formal writing. Consider context-appropriate alternatives like "anything", "any items", or more specific terms to ensure grammatical accuracy and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anything

This is the grammatically correct singular form, implying a single unspecified item instead of multiple items.

any items

Replaces "things" with a more formal synonym, clarifying the reference to distinct objects.

any objects

Substitutes "things" with "objects", suggesting a more concrete or tangible set of items.

any possessions

Replaces "things" with "possessions", implying ownership or personal belonging.

any belongings

Similar to "possessions", but often used for items carried or closely associated with a person.

any stuff

Offers a more informal alternative, suitable for casual contexts.

any effects

Implies personal property or belongings, often used in legal or formal contexts.

all things

Broadens the scope to encompass everything, rather than a selection of items.

some things

Indicates an unspecified quantity of items, often less than "any".

various items

Highlights the diversity or variety of the objects in question.

FAQs

Is it correct to say "any things"?

No, "any things" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. The correct form is usually "anything" for a singular item or "any items" for multiple items.

When should I use "anything" instead of "any things"?

Use "anything" when you are referring to a single, unspecified object or idea. "Any things" is not standard English.

What are some alternatives to "any things"?

Depending on the context, you can use "anything", "any items", "some things", or more specific terms like "any objects" or "any belongings".

How can I avoid using "any things" in my writing?

Pay attention to whether you are referring to a singular or plural concept. If singular, use "anything". If plural, rephrase using "any items" or a more descriptive noun.