Quantifiers – some, any, no
Generally, we learn that
some is for positive affirmation
any is for negations and questions.
Be careful because there are exceptions!
We can use the quantifier “some” with both countable and uncountable nouns.
We generally use it to make affirmations and to talk about a positive amount of something.
I have some money I can lend you.
The quantifier “any” is, indeed, used for negations and for asking questions.
I do not have any money to lend you.
Do you have any money you can give me?
However, there are times when you can use the quantifier “some” to ask a question.
We can use “some” in a question when we want
– to make an offer
Would you like some of my sandwich?
– to ask for something
Can I have some of your sandwich?
– to suggest something
Why don’t we take some of each?
We use the quantifier “no” with both countable and uncountable nouns. It means zero.
I have no money to lend you.
I have no friends staying in Parma this summer.