Some is usually used to indicate positive substance. Any is used in questions and negatives. For example,
- There is some bread on the table.
- I would like some more meat.
- Do you have any towels?
- There aren’t any more oranges.
Some and any can also be used as parts of indefinite pronouns: something, somebody, anything, anyone.
- Is anyone home?
- There isn’t anything in the oven.
- Something is wrong.
Be careful when using some and any alone in sentences.
| I don’t have some.
I don’t have any. |
(Incorrect) (Correct) |
Some can also be used in certain types of questions, such as offers and requests. For example,
- Would you like some more pie?
- Could I have some candy?