any old way
However it happens; not picky about the method.
Also called any which way.
Updated September 21, 2026
any old way pronunciation
/EN-ee OLD way/
Meaning
Means in whatever manner works, or with no fuss about doing it neatly. Sometimes it is easygoing ("fix it any old way"). Sometimes it calls out sloppy work ("He threw that fence up any old way").
How folks use it
- “Just stack those boxes any old way for now.”
- “Don't hang that gate any old way or it won't swing right.”
Origin and etymology
American informal English built from any + old as a softener, same family as "any old thing." Common in rural and Southern talk for "anyhow" or "however you please." Exact first print date is fuzzy, but the pattern is long-settled colloquial speech.
Frequently asked questions
Is it always careless?
No. Tone decides. Said easy, it means you are flexible. Said sharp, it means the job looks slapdash.