Anyway vs. Though — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 16, 2024
"Anyway" is used to resume or continue a topic, while "though" introduces a contrast or exception.
Difference Between Anyway and Though
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Anyway" is often used to return to the main topic or to emphasize that a point remains valid despite other factors. "Though," on the other hand, introduces a contrast or exception to what has just been stated. It can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.
In casual conversation, "anyway" can shift topics or wrap up discussions. For instance, "Anyway, what were we talking about?" It suggests that despite interruptions, the original point is still relevant. "Though" often adds nuance or softens a statement, such as, "It’s late. I’m not tired, though."
"Anyway" can sometimes imply dismissal of previous points, focusing on the main issue. For example, "The project was challenging, but we completed it anyway." It stresses that despite difficulties, the outcome remained unchanged. "Though" provides balance by acknowledging a differing perspective, like, "It’s expensive. Worth it, though."
"Anyway" is more conclusive and definitive, often indicating the end of a discussion or a decision despite previous objections. "Though" tends to leave room for further discussion, adding complexity or depth to a statement.
Comparison Chart
Function
Resumes or continues a topic
Introduces contrast or exception
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Position in Sentence
Typically at the beginning or end
Can be at beginning, middle, or end
Usage
Conclusive or definitive
Adds nuance or balance
Context
Often used to shift or wrap up conversations
Highlights contradictions or unexpected twists
Tone
Emphasizes the main point despite other factors
Softens statements or acknowledges differing views
Compare with Definitions
Anyway
Often used to return to the main point.
Anyway, as I was saying, we should start planning now.
Though
Can be placed at different positions in a sentence.
Though it was raining, we went for a walk.
Anyway
Implies dismissal of previous points to focus on the main issue.
It was a hard decision, but it’s made now anyway.
Though
Introduces a contrast or exception to what has been stated.
She’s very talented. I don’t see her often, though.
Anyway
Emphasizes a point remains valid despite other factors.
The movie was long, but it was enjoyable anyway.
Though
Adds nuance or balance to a statement.
It’s a small house. Very cozy, though.
Anyway
Conclusive in nature.
He didn’t help much, but we finished the project anyway.
Though
Highlights contradictions or unexpected twists.
He’s strict. He’s fair, though.
Anyway
In any way or manner whatever
Get the job done anyway you can.
Though
Leaves room for further discussion or complexity.
I’m tired. I’ll help you, though.
Anyway
In any case; at least
I don't know if it was lost or stolen.
Anyway, it's gone.
Though
Despite the fact that; although
He still argues, though he knows he's wrong. Even though it was raining, she walked to work.
Anyway
Nevertheless; regardless
It was raining but they played the game anyway.
Though
Conceding or supposing that; even if
Though they may not succeed, they will still try. See Usage Note at although.
Anyway
(conjunctive) Regardless; anyhow.
He didn't enjoy washing his car, but it was so dirty that he did it anyway.
Though
However; nevertheless
Snow is not predicted.
We can expect some rain, though.
Anyway
Used to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement. See anyhow and at least.
I don't think that's true. I haven't found any evidence, anyway.
Though
(Informal) Used as an intensive
Wouldn't that beat all, though?.
Anyway
Used to indicate a change of subject.
Though
(conjunctive) Despite that; however.
I'm not paid to do all this paperwork for you. I will do it this once, though.
Anyway
Used at the end of a question for emphasis, or to direct the conversation to something of more broad importance (compare with more to the point).
Though
(degree) Used to intensify statements or questions; indeed.
"Man, it's hot in here." — "Isn't it, though?"
Anyway
(obsolete) In any way.
Though
Despite the fact that; although.
Though it is risky, it is worth taking the chance.
Anyway
Anywise; at all.
Though
(archaic) If, that, even if.
We shall be not sorry though the man die tonight.
Anyway
Used to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement;
Anyhow, he is dead now
I think they're asleep; anyhow, they're quiet
I don't know what happened to it; anyway, it's gone
Anyway, there is another factor to consider
I don't know how it started; in any case, there was a brief scuffle
In any event, the government faced a serious protest
But at any rate he got a knighthood for it
Though
Granting, admitting, or supposing that; notwithstanding that; if.
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.
Not that I so affirm, though so it seem.
In the vine were three branches; and it was as though it budded.
Anyway
In any way whatsoever;
They came anyhow they could
Get it done anyway you can
Though
However; nevertheless; notwithstanding; - used in familiar language, and in the middle or at the end of a sentence.
I would not be as sick though for his place.
A good cause would do well, though.
Anyway
Used to resume or continue a topic after an interruption.
We had some issues with the car, but we got there anyway.
Though
Despite the fact that;
Even though she knew the answer, she did not respond
Though
(postpositive) however;
It might be unpleasant, though
Common Curiosities
What does "anyway" mean?
"Anyway" is used to resume or continue a topic, often emphasizing that a point remains valid despite other factors.
What does "though" mean?
"Though" introduces a contrast or exception to what has been previously stated.
Can "anyway" and "though" be used interchangeably?
No, "anyway" resumes or concludes a topic, while "though" introduces a contrast or exception.
How is "anyway" used in a sentence?
"Anyway" is often placed at the beginning or end of a sentence, e.g., "It’s late, but we’ll go anyway."
How is "though" used in a sentence?
"Though" can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end, e.g., "She’s friendly. I don’t know her well, though."
Example of "though" adding nuance?
E.g., "The food was expensive. Delicious, though."
Does "anyway" indicate the end of a discussion?
It can suggest a conclusion or resumption of the main point.
Example of "anyway" resuming a topic?
E.g., "Anyway, as I was saying, let’s plan the event."
Is "anyway" more informal than "though"?
Both can be used in informal and formal contexts, but "anyway" is often more casual.
Can "though" be used to end a sentence?
Yes, e.g., "I like the weather. It’s a bit cold, though."
Does "anyway" always imply dismissal of previous points?
Not always, but it often shifts focus back to the main issue.
Does "though" always soften a statement?
It often adds nuance or acknowledges a differing perspective.
Can "though" be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, e.g., "Though it was late, we continued working."
Can "anyway" be used in written English?
Yes, it is commonly used in both spoken and written English.
Is "though" used to contradict?
Yes, it introduces a contrast or an exception.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
