some
- pronunciation:
- suhm
- parts of speech:
- adjective, pronoun, adverb
- features:
- Note, Homophone Note
| part of speech: |
adjective |
| definition 1: |
being an unspecified number or amount.
some money- similar words:
- little
|
| definition 2: |
being unknown or unnamed.
Some man stopped to inquire about a job. |
| definition 3: |
being unspecified but relatively great in number or amount.
It will take some time to finish this job. |
| related words: |
several, various |
|
|
| part of speech: |
pronoun |
| definition 1: |
an indefinite quantity or number in addition to what was previously specified.
ten weeks and then some- similar words:
- several
|
| definition 2: |
certain unspecified people, things, or instances.
Some are friendly and some are not.- similar words:
- certain
|
| related words: |
couple, many |
|
|
| part of speech: |
adverb |
| definition 1: |
approximately; about.
It cost some fifty dollars. |
| definition 2: |
(informal) a bit; somewhat.
He reads some, but not much. |
some or any?
We use
any in negative sentences about quantity and in questions about quantity.
Some is not usually used in negative sentences, but can be used in questions if we think that the answer is likely to be yes. We also use
some when we offer something to someone in order to encourage that person to say yes.
Compare:
- Do you have any candy?
- I don't have any candy with me now.
- I do have some candy at home.
- Would you like some coffee?
The words
some and
sum (the result of adding) sound alike but have different meanings.