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Anybody: meaning, definitions and examples

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anybody

 

[ˈɛnɪˌbɒdi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Pronoun

indefinite

Any person at all, regardless of identity or specific characteristics.

Synonyms

anyone, everyone, somebody.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
anybody

Used when referring to any person in general. Often employed in questions or negative sentences.

  • Is there anybody who can help me with this?
  • I don't think anybody is coming to the party.
anyone

Similar to 'anybody', but slightly more formal. It is also used in questions, negative sentences, and to generalize any person.

  • Does anyone know the answer to this question?
  • I don't see anyone in the room.
somebody

Refers to an unspecified person, but implies that the speaker has a particular person in mind. Used in positive statements.

  • Somebody left their phone on the table.
  • I need to ask somebody for directions.
everyone

Refers to all people in a group. It is inclusive and used in positive sentences.

  • Everyone enjoyed the concert last night.
  • Can everyone please be quiet?

Examples of usage

  • Anybody can join the club, no restrictions.
  • Does anybody know the answer to this question?
  • She will talk to anybody who will listen.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A person of importance or authority.

Synonyms

important person, notable figure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
anybody

Use it when referring to any person in a general, non-specific sense. Suitable for casual or everyday conversation.

  • Anybody can learn to play the guitar if they practice enough.
  • Is there anybody here who can help me?
important person

Use it when referring to someone who holds significant influence, power, or status in a given context. Suitable for polite or formal situations.

  • The CEO is a very important person in the company.
  • They invited several important persons to the charity event.
notable figure

Use it to describe someone who is well-known and has achieved recognition in a particular field. Suitable for formal or academic contexts.

  • She is a notable figure in the world of science.
  • The conference will feature several notable figures from the art community.

Examples of usage

  • He's a real anybody in the music industry.
  • She's not just an anybody, she's a well-known author.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Anybody' is a combination of 'any' and 'body,' which emphasizes the inclusivity of any person.
  • The word has been used in written English since the 17th century, reflecting a need for a general term for people.
  • Similar terms in other languages can be interesting; for example, in Spanish, 'cualquiera' serves a similar purpose.

Grammar

  • 'Anybody' can be used in both questions and negative sentences, such as 'Does anybody know?' and 'I don’t think anybody saw me.'
  • It's categorized as an indefinite pronoun because it refers to non-specific individuals.
  • In contrast to 'somebody,' 'anybody' emphasizes openness and lack of restriction on who that person might be.

Pop Culture

  • 'Everybody' and 'anybody' are often used together in pop songs to express feelings of love or loneliness, showcasing their emotional weight.
  • The phrase 'anybody can do it' is a common motivational saying that encourages participation and belief in oneself.
  • The word is often seen in catchy phrases and slogans that promote inclusivity and equal opportunity.

Psychology

  • Using 'anybody' in questions can foster an inclusive atmosphere and encourage participation, reducing barriers to communication.
  • Studies show that the language used in everyday interactions influences feelings of belonging and inclusion among groups.
  • 'Anybody' can trigger different psychological responses depending on the context; it can be inviting or imply anonymity.

Literature

  • Writers often use 'anybody' to create a sense of universality in their characters' experiences, making them relatable to many.
  • In dialogues, characters may refer to 'anybody' to express confusion or frustration with society's expectations.
  • Famous literary works sometimes explore themes of 'anybody' as a reflection of societal norms and individual identity.

Translations

Translations of the word "anybody" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alguém

🇮🇳 कोई

🇩🇪 jemand

🇮🇩 seseorang

🇺🇦 хтось

🇵🇱 ktoś

🇯🇵 誰か (dareka)

🇫🇷 quelqu'un

🇪🇸 alguien

🇹🇷 biri

🇰🇷 누군가 (nugunga)

🇸🇦 شخص ما

🇨🇿 někdo

🇸🇰 niekto

🇨🇳 某人 (mǒurén)

🇸🇮 nekdo

🇮🇸 einhver

🇰🇿 біреу

🇬🇪 ვიღაც

🇦🇿 kiminsə

🇲🇽 alguien

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,364, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.