Any time vs anytime: Both spellings are used, but they are not always the same. “Anytime” (one word) means “whenever.” “Any time” (two words) means “any amount of time” or “any moment,” and it is also used after words like “at.”
Let’s look at the simple rule, some examples, and a quick tip to remember it.
Any Time vs Anytime: The Simple Rule
- Anytime is an adverb. It means “at any moment” or “whenever.” Example: “Call me anytime.”
- Any time is a phrase with “any” + “time.” It is about an amount of time, or a moment after a preposition. Example: “Do you have any time to talk?”
Correct Examples of “Anytime”
- “You can visit anytime.”
- “Call me anytime you need help.”
- “We are open anytime after noon.”
- “Thanks!” → “Anytime!”
Correct Examples of “Any Time”
- “Do you have any time this afternoon?” (an amount of time)
- “I don’t have any time to waste.” (an amount of time)
- “You may leave at any time.” (after a preposition)
- “Is there any time left on the clock?” (an amount of time)
Incorrect Examples
- “Do you have anytime to talk?” (Wrong. It should be “any time.”)
- “You may leave at anytime.” (Not the best choice. After “at,” it is better to write “any time.”)
Quick Tip to Remember
Try swapping in the word “whenever.” If it fits, write “anytime”. “Call me whenever” makes sense, so “Call me anytime” is right.
Now try swapping in “some time.” If that fits, write “any time” as two words. “Do you have some time to talk?” fits, so “Do you have any time to talk?” is right.
Anytime as a Reply
“Anytime” is also a friendly reply when someone thanks you. It means “I am happy to help whenever you need.” A shorter reply you may see in chats is NP. If you want more ways to respond to thanks or to say it, read our guide on other ways to say thank you.
Any Time vs Anytime: Quick FAQ
Is “anytime” a real word?
Yes. It is an accepted adverb that means “whenever.” It is especially common in American English.
Can I write “any time” for “whenever”?
Many people do, and it is also accepted. If you want to stay safe, use “anytime” for “whenever” and “any time” for an amount of time.
Is “at anytime” correct?
The safer form is “at any time,” because it comes after the preposition “at.”
Final Thoughts
To sum up, use “anytime” when you mean “whenever,” and “any time” when you mean an amount of time or after a preposition like “at.” If you are unsure, the “whenever” and “some time” swaps will help.
Style guides can differ a little, so if your school or company has its own rules, follow them.
With these two quick tests, you can pick the right form in seconds. If you also want to avoid spelling mistakes in words like “amount,” check our guide on amount or ammount.