Some vs Any - Countable and Uncountable

Some vs Any - Exercise and Quiz

These exercises focus on Some vs Any

What is the Difference Between Some and Any?

• Some is used when we talk about a small, indefinite amount in positive sentences.

• Any is used in negative sentences and questions.

Some vs. Any with Countable and Uncountable Nouns

1. Some – Used in Positive Sentences

We use some when we are talking about an unspecified quantity in a positive sentence.

2. Any – Used in Negative Sentences

We use any when there is nothing or not enough of something in a negative sentence.

3. Any – Used in Questions

We use any when we are asking about the existence of something.

Special Uses of Some and Any

1. Offering and Requesting – Use “Some” in Questions

Normally, we use any in questions, but when we offer or request something, we use some.

2. “Any” for “It Doesn’t Matter Which”

We use any to mean "it doesn't matter which one."

Common Mistakes

1. Using "some" in negative sentences

❌ I don’t have some money.
✅ I don’t have any money.

2. Using "any" in positive sentences

❌ She has any friends.
✅ She has some friends.

3. Forgetting that uncountable nouns don’t take plural

❌ I don’t have any waters.
✅ I don’t have any water.

Everyday Use of Some vs. Any

• At a restaurant: Do you have any vegetarian dishes?

• Shopping: I need some tomatoes for the salad.

• At home: There isn’t any bread left.

• At work: Can I have some help with this task?

See also: Irregular Plural Nouns

FAQs about Some vs. Any

Can I use "some" in questions?

Yes, when making offers or requests. (Would you like some coffee?)

Can I use "any" in positive sentences?

Yes, when it means "it doesn't matter which". (You can choose any color.)

Do "some" and "any" work with singular countable nouns?

No, we only use them with plural countable or uncountable nouns.

What is the difference between “some milk” and “any milk”?

• I have some milk. (Positive statement – There is milk.)

• I don’t have any milk. (Negative statement – No milk.)

• Do you have any milk? (Question – Asking if milk exists.)

Can "some" mean "a few"?

Yes! Some people like coffee, some don’t. (Here, some means a few but not all.)