Through

Definition

Through is a preposition, adverb, and adjective that indicates movement from one side to another, completion of a process, or continuity within a period or area.

Parts of Speech

• Preposition
• Adverb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /θru/
• Respelling: THROO

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /θruː/
• Respelling: THROO

Etymology

The word "through" originates from Old English "þurh," meaning "through, throughout, by means of," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "*thurx" and Proto-Indo-European "*terḱ-," meaning "to cross or pass." The spelling and meaning evolved into its modern form by Middle English.

Derivatives

• Throughway (noun)
• Throughout (preposition/adverb)
• Thorough (adjective)
• Thru (informal spelling)
• Thruway (noun, American English)

Synonyms

• Across
• Via
• Throughout

Antonyms

• Around
• Outside
• Past

Usage

The word "through" is versatile and commonly used to describe movement, completion, or a process. For example, as a preposition, "She walked through the door." As an adverb, "We worked through the night." As an adjective, "Is this a through road?"

Related Terms

• Path: A route or way to move through a space.
• Via: A preposition meaning "by way of."
• Passage: A way of moving or traveling through something.

Detailed Definitions

Preposition

• From one side or end to another: Indicates movement across an area or object.
  • Example: "The train goes through the tunnel."
• By means of: Describes the method or medium used to achieve something.
  • Example: "We communicated through email."
• Within or throughout a period: Refers to time continuity.
  • Example: "He stayed through the night."

Adverb

• From one side to another: Indicates a complete movement across a space.
  • Example: "The road runs through to the next town."
• Until the end: Refers to persistence or continuation to completion.
  • Example: "They worked through the challenges."

Adjective

• Allowing passage or travel: Describes something enabling continuous movement.
  • Example: "This is a through street."
• Complete or direct: Refers to something uninterrupted or thorough.
  • Example: "They took a through train to the destination."