Anytime vs. Any Time
“Anytime” is commonly an adverb. “Any time” remains two words when it is a noun phrase, as in “at any time” or “Do you have any time?” Cambridge also notes regional variation, including UK use of “any time” where US usage often has “anytime.”
Use “anytime” as an adverb meaning “whenever” or “at an unspecified time.” Use the two-word noun phrase “any time” when “time” functions as a noun, especially after “at” or when referring to an amount of time.
Key details
Further guidance
Core difference
Use “anytime” for the adverb meaning “whenever”; use “any time” when “time” is a noun modified by “any.”
Fast Test
If “whenever” works, the adverb “anytime” may fit. If you can identify “time” as a noun, keep “any time” separate.
Usage Boundary
After “at,” write “at any time,” not “at anytime.”
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Anytime — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Learner-dictionary evidence for anytime as an adverb meaning at an unspecified time, with UK any time also documented.
- Anytime vs. Any Time: What’s the Difference? (opens in a new tab)Dictionary.com · Usage evidence distinguishing the adverb anytime from the noun phrase any time, including after at.