- An informal and friendly response to Thank you.
- It implies that the speaker was happy to help and would be willing to do so again in the future (i.e., You can ask me for help anytime).
Explanation
Origin
- Shortened form of a phrase like (I'd be happy to help) anytime or (You can ask me) anytime.
- Became a common colloquial response to thanks in American English during the 20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- No prob.
- No worries.
- Sure thing.
- You got it. (Can sometimes be used similarly)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- (Not applicable)
Milder/Standard:
- You're welcome.
- My pleasure.
- The pleasure was mine.
- Don't mention it.
- Not at all.
- Happy to help. / Glad to help.
- Think nothing of it.
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Very common and generally seen as polite and friendly in everyday interactions.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Unlikely to be misunderstood. Clearly a positive and willing response to thanks.
Examples
- Thanks for lending me your notes. / Anytime.
- I really appreciate you giving me a ride. / Anytime, happy to help.
- Thank you for listening. / Anytime.
Dialogue
Social Media Examples
- Reply to someone thanking for online advice: Thanks so much, this worked! -> Helper: Anytime!
- Comment on a post where someone received help: Big shoutout to @Friend for helping me move! -> Friend's reply: Anytime, buddy!
Response Patterns
- Used exclusively as a response to an expression of gratitude (Thank you).
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing Anytime:
- The person who said Thank you typically smiles or nods, feeling the warmth of the offer.
- The exchange related to the thanks is usually concluded.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- It's a response to Thank you.
Intonation
- Usually said in a warm, friendly tone.
- Often has a slightly rising intonation, sounding open and inviting: AN-y-time.
- Can also have a simple falling tone.
Generation Differences
- Widely used and understood across generations.
Regional Variations
- Very common in North American English (US/Canada).
- Understood and sometimes used in other regions, but perhaps less common than No worries (Aus/NZ/UK) or My pleasure (UK).