Notes on the form of indefinite pronouns

1 There is no noticeable difference in meaning and use between -one forms and -body forms. They refer to male(s) and female(s).

2 These compounds (except no one) are normally written as one word.

3 These compounds (except those formed with -thing) have a genitive form [> 2.48]: Grammar isn't everyone's ideaof fun

4 Compare compound adverbs which are formed with -where: somewhere, anywhere, nowhere and everywhere [> 7.18].

Uses of 'some/any/no/every' compounds

Some/any/no/every compounds (except -where compounds) function as pronouns. They are called indefinite because we do not always know who or what we are referring to. These compounds follow the rules given for the use of some, any and no [> 5.10-11]. Briefly, some compounds are used in:

- the affirmative: / met someone you know last night

- questions expecting 'yes': Was there something you wanted?

- offers and requests: Would you like something to drink?

Any compounds are used:

- in negative statements: There isn't anyone who can help you

- in questions when we are doubtful about the answer:

te there anyone here who's a doctor⁷

- with hardly, etc: I've had hardly anythingto eat today

No compounds are used when the verb is affirmative [> 13.9]:

There's no one here at the moment (= There isn't anyone...)

Indefinite pronouns