Pronunciation: [ˌɛni ˈə͡ʊld] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "any old" may seem confusing at first. However, it can be broken down into its individual sounds: /ˈɛni/ for "any" and /oʊld/ for "old." The "a" sound in "any" is pronounced with an "e" sound, while "old" has a long "o" sound. Together, the phrase can be pronounced as /ˈɛni oʊld/. "Any old" is often used to mean "any available" or "anything will do," and is commonly heard in informal speech.
"Any old" is a colloquial expression used to convey a lack of specific preference, thoroughness, or quality in regards to something or someone. It is often used informally in conversations, particularly in British English.
When used in relation to objects or items, "any old" suggests that one does not have a particular or strict requirement for a specific item. It implies a willingness to accept or use any available option, regardless of its condition, quality, or suitability. For example, if someone says, "I don't care about the color, just give me any old pen," they are emphasizing that any generic pen will be sufficient for their needs, without any specific preferences or requirements.
In the context of people, "any old" is used to refer to someone without any specific qualities or traits in mind. It denotes a lack of particularity or selectiveness in choosing or considering individuals. For instance, when someone says, "I could go out with any old person," they mean that they are open to dating or socializing with anyone, without necessarily looking for specific qualities or characteristics.
Overall, "any old" is an informal phrase that indicates a lack of particularity, preference, or selectiveness in relation to objects, items, or people. It conveys a casual and open-minded attitude towards choices or options.
The phrase "any old" has a colloquial usage in English to convey a casual, unimportant, or indiscriminate option. Its etymology can be traced back to the early 19th century, specifically the expression "any old thing". It originally meant "just anything", with the word "old" serving as an intensifier rather than indicating age. Over time, "any old thing" was shortened to "any old", losing connection to a specific object or thing. This usage became popular in colloquial speech, retaining the sense of something being unimportant, random, or of low quality.
