1.139 structures used with 'any-'

Indefinite pronouns beginning with 'any-' can be used as the object or indirect object of a question or a negative clause.

• 'I couldn't kill anybody, Dr Marlowe.'
• You still haven't told me anything.
• Take a good look and tell me if you see anything different.
• I haven't given anyone their presents yet.

They are often used as the subject of both negative and affirmative questions. Note that they are not used as the subject of a negative statement. That is, you do not say 'Anybody can't come in'.

• Does anybody agree with me?
• Won't anyone help me?
• If anything unusual happens, could you call me on this number?

Note that when you are making an affirmative statement, 'anyone' and 'anybody' are used to refer to people in general and not to only one person.

• Anybody who wants to can come in and buy a car from me.