# see through

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/see-through
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to realize that someone is lying or trying to trick you. You use this when you understand the truth behind a person's fake behavior.

For teachers: to perceive the true nature of someone or something, especially when they are attempting to deceive. In this sense, the verb is transitive and inseparable.

## Examples

- I saw through his excuses right away.
- Even though the politician promised lower taxes, most voters saw through the plan and realized it would actually cost them more money.
- The seasoned investigator was able to see through the suspect's elaborate alibi, noting several small inconsistencies that eventually led to a full confession.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I saw his lies through." but "I saw through his lies." — the phrase is inseparable when it means to detect a lie, so the object must come at the end.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a person or their deceptive behavior like lies or tricks.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'see something through' which means to finish a task; the deception sense is inseparable while the completion sense is separable.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.