Any vs. Every

Attribute	Any	Every
Definition	One or some	All
Usage	Used in positive sentences	Used in positive and negative sentences
Quantifier	Indefinite	Definite
Scope	Less restrictive	More restrictive

Definition

Any and every are both determiners that are used to refer to all members of a group or category. However, they are used in slightly different contexts and have different nuances in meaning.

Usage

Any is used in questions and negative sentences to refer to one or more members of a group or category. For example, "Do you have any apples?" or "I don't have any money." It is also used in affirmative sentences when the meaning is "it doesn't matter which one." On the other hand, every is used to refer to all members of a group or category individually. For example, "Every student must complete the assignment."

Specificity

Any is more general and non-specific compared to every. It implies a lack of restriction or limitation. For example, "You can choose any book from the shelf." In this sentence, the person can choose any book without any specific restrictions. Every, on the other hand, implies a specific and individual consideration of each member of the group. For example, "Every student in the class received a certificate." In this sentence, each student received a certificate individually.

Quantification

Any is often used with uncountable nouns or plural countable nouns to indicate an indefinite quantity. For example, "Do you have any water?" or "I don't have any friends." It does not specify a particular number or amount. Every, on the other hand, is used to refer to each and every member of a group or category. It implies a complete set or total inclusion. For example, "Every house on the street was decorated for Christmas."

Exclusivity

Any can be used in both positive and negative contexts and does not imply exclusivity. It can refer to one or more members of a group without restriction. For example, "You can take any seat in the theater." Every, however, implies exclusivity and refers to all members of a group individually. For example, "Every student in the class passed the exam." In this sentence, each student passed the exam without exception.

Flexibility

Any is more flexible in its usage compared to every. It can be used in a wide range of contexts and does not require a specific number or amount. For example, "You can choose any color you like." Every, on the other hand, is more specific and is used when referring to each individual member of a group. For example, "Every member of the team must attend the meeting."

Conclusion

In conclusion, any and every are both determiners that are used to refer to all members of a group or category. While they have similar meanings, they are used in different contexts and have different nuances. Any is more general, non-specific, and flexible in its usage, while every is more specific, individual, and exclusive. Understanding the differences between any and every can help you use them correctly in your writing and communication.