“Anywho” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on January 11, 2025 by Isabella Claire

“Anywho” is a slang term you will hear, not only used on the internet and in text messages, but also everyday conversation and writing. Although this term may seem like a word that is incorrectly spelled at first glance, it is spelled correctly and is a term all on its own.

Here you will find the meaning of this slang term and information about its origin if there is any available. You will also find some other meanings if they exist and see the term used in example conversations that will help you to better comprehend its usage and meaning. Finally, you will see some synonyms for the slang term that you can use in its place when speaking or writing to relate the same meaning.

“Anywho” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • In slang, “anywho” is an informal and playful way of saying “anyway”. It’s often used to transition a conversation, change the topic, or wrap up a previous point in a lighthearted or humorous manner. It adds a casual and fun tone to speech.
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“Anywho” Meaning

The slang term “anywho” is used to take the place of anyway, however, or anyhow in a sentence or conversation. It is a transition word to clue your audience in that you are going to switch topics or revert to speaking about the first thing you were talking about if you have gotten off track for some reason.

Origin of Anywho

There is no definitive information regarding the origin of the slang term “anywho.” Some say it was first heard on a radio broadcast in 1968. Others say it was listed as a word in the Australian Dictionary as “anyhoo” before that time. However, many believe that it was not widely used in the U.S. until much more recently, circa 2001. It is believed that its popularity in the U.S. grew through its comic usage on popular television shows like Friends and The Simpsons.

Usage of this Term

1. Changing the Subject

Context: When someone wants to move the conversation to a different topic. Example:

  • “The weather’s been crazy lately. Anywho, did you finish that project we talked about?”

2. Wrapping Up a Story

Context: When someone is ending a tangent or side story and wants to return to the main topic. Example:

  • “So yeah, I ended up spilling coffee all over my shirt. Anywho, how was your weekend?”

3. Downplaying a Situation

Context: To dismiss or gloss over something trivial. Example:

  • “It was just a tiny scratch on the car. Nothing serious. Anywho, let’s head to the restaurant.”

4. Breaking an Awkward Silence

Context: To fill an awkward pause in conversation with a light transition. Example:

  • “So… this is kind of awkward. Anywho, what’s your favorite TV show?”

5. Expressing Humor or Playfulness

Context: To add a humorous or quirky tone to the conversation. Example:

  • “I accidentally called my boss ‘mom’ today. Anywho, I need a new job.”

Related Terms to “Anywho”

  • Anyway: The standard form of “anywho,” used to transition between topics or return to the main point.
  • Anyhow: Similar to “anywho,” used to mean “in any case” or “regardless.” Often interchangeable with “anyway.”
  • Whatevs: Short for “whatever,” used to express indifference or a casual attitude.
  • Oh well: Used to express resignation or acceptance of something that cannot be changed.
  • Moving on: A phrase used to indicate transitioning to another subject or letting go of something.
  • Never mind: Used to dismiss something that was just said or to shift the focus.
  • So: A simple term often used to start or redirect a conversation.
  • By the way: Used to introduce a new piece of information or an aside.
  • At any rate: Used to emphasize a point or to move the conversation forward.
  • You know what I mean? : A casual phrase used to seek agreement or understanding, often transitioning to a related thought.

Other Ways to Say the Term

  • Anyway
  • Anyhow
  • At any rate
  • In any case
  • Moving on

“Anywho” Examples

Sentence Examples

  • “I was planning to go to the park, but anywho, it started raining.”
  • “We’ve talked about this long enough; anywho, let’s move on to the next topic.”
  • “The meeting went on forever; anywho, we finally wrapped it up around 5 PM.”
  • “I forgot to mention earlier, but anywho, I’ll be late tomorrow.”
  • “I spilled coffee on my shirt this morning. Anywho, how’s your day going?”
  • “The concert was amazing last night! Anywho, what are your plans for the weekend?”
  • “I didn’t understand the instructions completely, but anywho, I managed to finish the project.”

Conversation Examples

A text conversation between two friends:

  • Friend 1: I told you what happened to me yesterday right?
  • Friend 2: You mean about your run-in with Aaron?
  • Friend 1: Yes! Oh my gosh, he is so sweet and so cute! I wish he would ask me out already!
  • Friend 2: Well, yeah you told me about it. Why?
  • Friend 1: Oh yeah, anywho, I talked to him and he said that his friend Damian likes you!

An online conversation between two Facebook users about an item listed for sale.

  • User 1: Brand new sneakers for sale. Don’t have tags but I have the receipt. Paid $100 for them but willing to take $75.
  • User 2: I had a pair just like these when I was growing up but they looked a little bit different.
  • User 1: That doesn’t surprise me. The brand has been around forever.
  • User 2: Yes, they have but that’s not surprising. They make great shoes that last a long time.
  • User 1: That they do.
  • User 2: Anywho, would you take $70 for them? I would like to buy them for my son.
  • User 1: Sure!
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