In Australian English, we usually write ‘any more’ as two words. However, in some cases it can be written as ‘anymore’ instead. But when it is written as one word, it has a more specific meaning. What, then, is the difference between ‘any more’ and ‘anymore’? Let us explain.
We can use ‘any more’ in two main situations:
Typically, this will be when either asking a question or making a negative statement. For example, if we were asking a question, we might say:
In the first question, we use ‘any more’ to mean ‘an indefinite quantity’ of cake. In the second, we use it to ask about a period of time that someone lived in Canberra (in particular, whether that period of time has ended).
If we were making a negative statement, on the other hand, we might say:
The first sentence above uses ‘any more’ as a determiner to mean ‘even the smallest amount’ of cake would be too much. The second uses it as an adverb to modify the verb ‘live’ (i.e. it shows that they no longer live there). Notice that when used as a determiner, ‘any more’ goes in front of a noun. When used as an adverb, however, ‘any more’ goes at the end of the sentence.
If we write ‘anymore’ as a single word, it can only be used as an adverb. As such, ‘anymore’ always means ‘no longer’ and refers to a period of time:
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Do you not live in Canberra anymore?
I don’t live in Canberra anymore.
Writing ‘anymore’ as a single word is much more common in American English, but it is accepted in modern Australian English as well. The advantage of this is that the reader can immediately see that you are talking about a period of time. However, since we do not use ‘anymore’ when referring to quantities, you need to be careful about writing it this way.
The key here is to remember that ‘anymore’ has a specific meaning:
In Australian English, then, you can use ‘any more’ to mean either ‘any longer’ or ‘even the smallest amount’. But you should be careful when using the one-word version of this term.
However, ‘anymore’ is much more common in American English. So if you are writing for an American or international audience, you may want to distinguish between these terms for clarity. If you would like help tailoring your writing for a particular audience like this, moreover, let us know.
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