a, an or any?

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Hi everyone!!!

Who can tell me the difference between the two sentences:

I have never been a member of any political party.
I have never been a member of a political party.

I was told the first one isn’t correct, is it true and why???

Thanks!
Lyov

2

They’re both correct and mean the same thing, but the first seems to have more emphasis, though. It would be perfect for insisting that you have never belonged to one.

3

Hey Mordant!
I knew it was correct and hoped to see such an answer :)) Thanks!

4

So what does it mean when using a political party?

5

“I have been a member of a political party.”

6

I do not understand why they told you that first one is not correct, it just has different meaning, when we use “any” we have to put it into “negative” sentences.
I think they both are OK.

7

Of course neither is incorrect. The 1st might indicate that I’ve not attended any of political parties, while the 2nd indicates that I’ve not attended any SINGLE political party.

8

Hi BS

You really should restrict yourself to asking questions.

Your last post suggests that you have no idea what a ‘political party’ even is. If you’d like to find out, I would suggest using www.onelook.com.
[color=darkblue]_____________________________________
[size=75]“The learned man knows that he is ignorant.” ~ Victor Hugo[/size]

9

You cannot attend a political party. You can join a party, be a card carrying member of one
You can attend a meeting (be in attendance, or present)
That said, both sentences above mean the exact same thing
And I don’t care for hair-splitting because it would only confuse students.

10

I found the idea of attending a political party amusing. lol

11

I believe Beeesneees is right.

Hi Yankee,
Thanks.