Originally something said to
transition from one topic to another, nowadays (and especially among some younger people) it seems to be used as a rather rude way of
restricting one
another's ability to speak their mind at all.
Person 1: Why did you steal my
jacket?
Person 2:
Because I can!
Person 1: How many times do I have to tell you not to touch my stuff unless you ask?!
Person 2:
ANYWAYS...