anyhow
EHN-ee-how
Anyhow (adv) means used to return to an earlier point or wrap up a digression; anyway. Example: “Anyhow, as I was saying, the trip got cancelled.”
adv
1
Used to return to an earlier point or wrap up a digression; anyway.
"Anyhow, as I was saying, the trip got cancelled."
2
In any way whatsoever; regardless.
"We'll get this finished somehow or anyhow."
adj
1
(informal) Careless, messy, or done without much thought.
"The papers were left in an anyhow pile on the desk."
How to use anyhow
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA filler word for changing the subject back, similar to "anyway."
When to use it
Common in casual speech; "anyway" is more standard in writing.
Easily confused with
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_____, as I was saying, the trip got cancelled.
Etymology
A combination of "any" + "how," originally meaning "in whatever way."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “anyhow” mean?
The word “anyhow” means used to return to an earlier point or wrap up a digression; anyway. In plain terms, a filler word for changing the subject back, similar to "anyway.".
How do you pronounce “anyhow”?
“Anyhow” is pronounced EHN-ee-how (/ˈɛn.i.haʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “anyhow” in a sentence?
Here is “anyhow” used in a sentence: “Anyhow, as I was saying, the trip got cancelled.”
What part of speech is “anyhow”?
Depending on how it is used, “anyhow” can be an adverb and an adjective.
Is “anyhow” a common word?
“Anyhow” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “anyhow” have?
“Anyhow” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used to return to an earlier point or wrap up a digression; anyway.
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