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Earlier today, I had to pull out my trusted AP Stylebook. I had to explain why anyone was wrong in a sentence and couldn’t quite remember why it was wrong, I just knew it was.
The sentence was, “any one can participate.” I just knew it was supposed to be, “anyone can participate,” but I couldn’t remember why.
Luckily, the AP Stylebook always has the answer.
One word for an indefinite reference, two words when the emphasis is on singling out a member from a group.
Indefinite reference: Why would anyone want to do that? (This is the most common).
Singling out: Any one can vote. (The group is whoever is eligible to vote.)
Still confused? Check out this post by my favorite Grammar Girl on the topic.
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I think it’s
“Anyone can participate in the science fair.”
“Of the students, any one can participate in the science fair. No working in pairs or groups, please.”
Great examples! Thank you so much for sharing!