anyhow
adverb
UK/ˈenihaʊ/US/ˈenihaʊ/
In any case; anyway; regardless of other considerations.
Example Sentences
I was tired, but I decided to go to the party anyhow.
He didn't have all the necessary information, but he completed the task anyhow.
Anyhow, we need to find a solution to this problem.
She wasn't sure about the details, but she agreed to help anyhow.
They were running late, but they arrived on time anyhow.
The weather was bad, but the event went ahead anyhow.
He didn't feel like studying, but he did it anyhow to pass the exam.
Anyhow, it's important to stay positive despite the challenges.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Used to carry on or conclude a point regardless of earlier factors.“Anyhow” is an adverb that indicates a statement or action will proceed despite preceding circumstances or objections. For instance, you might say, “I’m tired, but I’ll finish the project anyhow,” emphasizing a determination to continue. It can also suggest a slight shift of topic or a concession that previous details won’t stop the outcome—“The weather’s bad, but we’re heading out anyhow.”In conversation, people often use “anyhow” as a casual transition, akin to “anyway,” to wrap up one train of thought and move on to another. It may also signal a final stance that remains unaffected by prior arguments: “He complained about the plan, but we went ahead anyhow.” By deploying “anyhow,” you convey a sense of resoluteness, dismissal of barriers, or swift topic shift, maintaining the flow of dialogue or narrative. Though typically informal, it can fit many contexts to indicate continuity or disregard for constraints, from personal chats to semi-formal writing.
Alternatives
Synonyms like “anyway,” “regardless,” or “nevertheless” closely mirror the meaning of “anyhow,” each carrying the connotation of going forward despite opposition or irrelevance. “Anyway” is the closest everyday substitute, widely used to nudge the conversation along or finalize a thought. “Regardless” adds a more formal note, often appearing in writing that underscores determination. Meanwhile, “nevertheless” leans slightly more formal or dramatic, underscoring perseverance or concluding a contrasting point.You can also use “all the same” or “even so” to hint at persistence in the face of disagreement or challenge. For more conversational transitions, “in any case” or “either way” can emphasize that one’s stance remains unaffected. By juggling these synonyms, you tailor your tone—from lighthearted daily banter to structured arguments—while maintaining the sense that no matter the obstacles, the discussion or action proceeds.
Writing
In writing, “anyhow” typically appears in informal pieces—like personal blogs, casual essays, or direct speech—to lighten tone or convey a breezy transition from one topic to the next. For example, “I was caught in traffic, so I almost missed the meeting. Anyhow, we still managed to finalize the contract.” This usage allows for an immediate shift, clarifying that previous issues didn’t derail the outcome. Be mindful of style and audience, though. In academic or highly formal texts, “anyhow” may feel too colloquial, where alternatives like “nonetheless” or “in any event” better suit. Using “anyhow” sparingly in semi-formal writing can still add a relatable voice, especially if you’re weaving in personal anecdotes. Tailor its frequency and placement to ensure readability: overusing “anyhow” can sound repetitive or flippant.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversations or text exchanges, “anyhow” often marks a mild dismissal or the desire to wrap up a topic. For example, “I couldn’t find my phone charger. Anyhow, I’ll just borrow yours,” signals that you’ve moved on from the frustration without letting it take center stage. Friends might also use it to steer a group chat back on course: “Anyhow, where were we before this tangent?”It can carry a friendly but resigned shrug, highlighting acceptance of whatever came before. You might say, “Our plans fell through. Anyhow, we can still hang out at my place,” showing a spontaneous, flexible attitude. While “anyway” is more common among many English speakers, “anyhow” is equally acceptable, bringing a slightly more casual ring in some regions or dialects. Comedic or exasperated contexts may lean on “anyhow” to underline that obstacles won’t change the main goal or next step.
Etymology
“Anyhow” evolved from the Old English words “ænig” (any) and “hū” (how), literally meaning “in any manner or way.” Early forms of this phrase signified an indifferent approach to method or result. Over time, as Middle English transitioned to Modern English, the combined adverb solidified as “anyhow,” capturing a sense of disregard for specifics or obstacles. Its colloquial usage blossomed with the rise of more conversational writing and speech patterns, particularly in the 19th century. Today, “anyhow” endures as an informal yet versatile adverb, implying a determined or dismissive stance. Whether you’re downplaying inconveniences or shrugging off diversions, “anyhow” continues to convey the idea of carrying on regardless, anchoring everyday language with a useful bridging or concluding function.
