WordGarden.ioanyhow
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛnɪhˌaʊ/
US
- /ˈɛniˌhaʊ/
Meanings
Adverb
anyway; in any case
in a careless or haphazard way
Beyond the definition
"Anyhow" is a lot like saying "regardless of what just happened," or "anyway." It is informal and often used to move past a difficulty or change the subject. If you trip while walking, you might say, "I'm fine, anyhow!" as if to dismiss the stumble. It suggests resilience—a willingness to keep going despite setbacks. Think of it as a verbal shrug; you are acknowledging that something went wrong but deciding not to dwell on it.
It is often used at the beginning or end of a sentence to soften a statement or indicate that you are proceeding with your plan, even if things aren't ideal. For instance: "It was raining, but we went to the beach anyhow." Or, "I tried my best, and that's that, anyhow."
You may also hear it in phrases like "anyhow you can" or "anyhow I can," meaning "in whatever way is possible": "Just get it done anyhow you can."
"Anyhow" is an adverb that signals a shift in focus or a continuation of action despite obstacles. It is a versatile word with a few subtly different shades of meaning. At its core, it means "in any case," "nevertheless," or "regardless." Think of it as acknowledging that something could have stopped you, but didn't.
It is often used to downplay difficulties: "The traffic was terrible, but we made it on time anyhow." This suggests a casual acceptance of imperfection. It is also frequently used to resume a topic after a digression. For example, if you were rambling about the weather but wanted to get back to your main story, you might say: "But anyhow, back to what I was saying." Here, it acts as a bridge to steer the conversation back on track.
Another common use is "in whatever way is possible," especially with verbs like help or manage: "I'll help you anyhow I can." In this sense, you're not saying you'll be messy—you're saying you don't care which method works, as long as it works.
There is one other distinct meaning: doing something in a careless or disorderly way. If someone throws their clothes into a suitcase "just anyhow," they are packing haphazardly and without order.
Overall, "anyhow" has a folksy, conversational feel. It implies practicality, a refusal to be deterred, and a desire to just keep things moving.
Examples
- 1
Work deadline
We were short of time, but we finished the report anyhow.
- 2
Taking a chance
"Do you think she'll say yes?" "I don't know, but I'll ask her anyhow."
- 3
Despite illness
He wasn't feeling well, but he went to work anyhow.
- 4
Returning to topic
Anyhow, let's get back to the main question.
- Usage
At the start of a sentence, anyhow often helps move back to the main topic.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Careless packing
She threw her clothes into the suitcase anyhow and ran for the train.
See also
Similar
- anyway
- in any case
- regardless
Shades of meaning
- at any rate
- nevertheless
- all the same
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- anyhow, ...
- but anyhow
- anyhow, thanks
Explore
- discourse marker
- concession
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- anyhowadverb