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any way   —   anyway

Though the difference seems to be negligible – one word and two words – care should be taken in using these two expressions because they have distinct (very clear and different) meanings.  They cannot be used interchangeably.

“Any way” (the two-word expression) means ‘by any method’,

e.g.

You can arrange these pieces of furniture any way you like.

[i.e. you can place the sofa near the door or in the corner; the table at the window or by the wall, etc.]

“Anyway” (the one-word expression) is used in the sense of ‘anyhow’ which means ‘in any case’.  It is also used to show a change of subject in speech or writing.

e.g.

She may not like your visit, but you shall go and see her anyway.

[i.e. you shall go and see her whether she likes it or not]

‘Anyway’ is regarded by some speakers as nonstandard. It can usually be removed from the sentence without changing the grammatical acceptability of the sentence.

Common Errors:

1. Unfortunately, the park is not quiet and romantic.  Anyway, it is close by the bus-stop and we can get a bus any time. [wrong]

Unfortunately, the park is not quiet and romantic.  Nevertheless, it is close by the bus-stop…   [right]

2.  He was sorry he wouldn’t be able to attend the party.  Anyway, he would like to give you some present.  [wrong]

He was sorry he wouldn’t be able to attend the party. Nevertheless, he would like to give you some present.  [right]

We cannot use ‘anyway’ or ‘anyhow’ in place of “however”, “on the other hand”, or “nevertheless” when there is contrast between two expressions that are to be joined.

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