Some vs. Any

Some and any are both used to talk about an unknown quantity of something. They are often used before plural countable nouns or uncountable nouns — but we use them in different types of sentences.

When to use “some”

Use some in positive (affirmative) sentences and offers or requests when you expect the answer to be “yes.”

• We have some bread in the kitchen.
• Would you like some coffee?
• Can I borrow some paper?

When to use “any”

Use any in negative sentences and most questions. It’s more general than “some.”

• We don’t have any sugar left.
• Do you have any ideas?
• I didn’t buy any tickets.