Everytime vs. Anytime — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 31, 2023
"Everytime" (often misspelled) means each occasion or time something occurs; "Anytime" means at any unspecified time.
Difference Between Everytime and Anytime
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Everytime and Anytime are two words that may sound similar but have distinct meanings and uses in English. Everytime (though often considered a misspelling of "every time") is used to refer to each occasion or instance when something happens. In contrast, Anytime is used to denote an unspecified time, suggesting that there's no particular moment in mind, but it can be at any given time.
In common usage, Everytime should be two separate words: "every time." When someone says, "Every time I go to the beach, I get sunburned," they're pointing out a repeated occurrence or a pattern. Anytime, on the other hand, conveys a sense of flexibility. For instance, if someone says, "Call me anytime," they're implying that they're available to take a call regardless of when it is made.
Grammatically, Everytime (or the more standard "every time") is typically used in conjunction with a reference to a specific recurring event. It emphasizes repetition and can be thought of as synonymous with "each time." On the other hand, Anytime is an adverb indicating a lack of specificity regarding time, comparable to "whenever."
When considering the nuances, Everytime (or "every time") suggests a certain predictability. For instance, "Every time it rains, the streets flood" implies a consistent outcome based on a specific condition. Anytime, with its broader scope, can be seen in phrases like "Anytime is a good time for pizza," showcasing an openness to the idea without constraints on timing.
Lastly, Everytime (as "every time") is a phrase that links two events, suggesting one consistently follows the other. In contrast, Anytime stands alone, offering an open in
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Comparison Chart
Meaning
Each occasion something occurs.
At any unspecified time.
Grammatical Use
Often linked to specific recurring events.
Adverb indicating lack of specificity.
Flexibility
Refers to predictability and pattern.
Conveys flexibility and openness.
Correct Usage
Should be "every time" (two words) in standard English.
Used as a single word.
Synonymous with
"Each time."
"Whenever."
Compare with Definitions
Everytime
Each instance or occasion when something happens.
Every time she laughs, I can't help but smile.
Anytime
At any unspecified or arbitrary time.
You can visit me anytime you're in town.
Everytime
On all occasions or in every case.
Every time I try that dish, I love it even more.
Anytime
On any occasion or in any situation.
Feel free to ask questions anytime.
Everytime
Whenever a specific event or condition occurs.
Every time the doorbell rings, the dog barks.
Anytime
At whatever time.
Call me anytime you need help.
Everytime
Whenever a repeated action or situation happens.
Every time I read that book, I discover something new.
Anytime
Without any particular time in mind.
I'm free anytime next week.
Everytime
Consistently upon repeated occurrences.
Every time we go on vacation, we visit the beach.
Anytime
Whenever it is convenient.
You can start the project anytime.
Everytime
"Everytime" is a song by American singer Britney Spears for her fourth studio album, In the Zone (2003). It was released on April 21, 2004, by Jive Records as the third single from the album.
Anytime
At any time.
Everytime
(proscribed) every time
Anytime
At any time
Anytime
"you're welcome" in response to "thank you" or "thanks."
Anytime
Suitable for any time; not associated with any particular time.
Common Curiosities
When should I use "Everytime" (or "every time")?
Use it when referring to each occasion or instance when something happens.
Can "Anytime" be used to suggest flexibility?
Yes, "Anytime" conveys a sense of flexibility and openness.
Is "Every time I eat ice cream, I'm happy" a correct usage?
Yes, it highlights a repeated occurrence.
Is "Everytime" considered a misspelling?
Yes, the standard form in English is "every time."
Does "Every time" emphasize consistency?
Yes, it emphasizes consistency based on a specific condition.
Is "Everytime" one word or two in standard English?
In standard English, it's two words: "every time."
Does "Anytime" specify a particular moment?
No, "Anytime" denotes a lack of specificity regarding time.
Is "Anytime" used as an open invitation?
Yes, it offers an open invitation or acknowledges an indiscriminate occurrence.
Is "Anytime" the same as "any time"?
While closely related, "Anytime" is an adverb, whereas "any time" can refer to any amount of time.
What does "Anytime" mean?
"Anytime" means at any unspecified or arbitrary time.
Can I say "Call me anytime" to suggest I'm always available?
Yes, it implies you're available at any given time.
Are there synonyms for "Anytime"?
Yes, "whenever" can be a synonym.
Can "Every time" be used to indicate a pattern?
Yes, it emphasizes repetition and can denote a pattern.
Why might someone use "Every time" instead of "Anytime"?
They'd use "Every time" to highlight a consistent outcome based on a specific condition, whereas "Anytime" showcases an openness without constraints on timing.
Can "Every time" link two events?
Yes, it can suggest that one event consistently follows another.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
