ENGLISH
REFERENCE

through

prep. · adv. · adj.
US //ˈθɹu// UK //θɹˈuː// through
  1. 1 moving from one side to the other (prep.)
    A1 Beginner

    entering one side of something and coming out the other side.

    expressing movement into one side and out of the opposite side of an enclosed space or volume.

    Example

    The train went through the tunnel and came out into the sunlight.

    Example

    The hikers navigated through the dense forest for several hours before finally reaching the clearing at the base of the mountain.
  2. 2 by means of (prep.)
    B1 Intermediate

    using a person, thing, or system to get a result.

    indicating the agency, medium, or instrument by which an effect is produced or an end is achieved.

    Example

    I found out about the job through a friend who works there.

    Example

    The researchers secured the necessary funding through a combination of private donations and government grants.
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  1. 3 from start to finish (prep.)
    A2 Elementary

    from the beginning to the end of a period of time.

    during the entire period or throughout the duration of an event or timeframe.

    Example

    The baby slept through the night without waking up once.

    Example

    The witness remained remarkably calm through the entire cross-examination, never once losing her composure under pressure.
  2. 4 up to and including (prep.)
    B1 Intermediate American English

    until a certain point, including that point itself.

    indicating a range that includes the final mentioned value or date.

    Example

    The shop is open Monday through Saturday but closed on Sundays.

    Example

    The exhibition will be on display from January through March, featuring works from the artist's private collection.

    Usage

    In British English, 'to' or 'until' is more common for this meaning.
  3. 5 all the way (adv.)
    A2 Elementary

    from one side to the other, or until the end.

    from beginning to end, or completely from one side to the other.

    Example

    The rain soaked him all the way through to his skin.

    Example

    The drill bit went all the way through the thick timber, leaving a clean exit hole on the underside.
  4. 6 finished (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    having completed a task or a relationship.

    having reached the end of a process, task, or interpersonal relationship.

    Example

    I am finally through with my homework, so I can go out now.

    Example

    After years of constant arguments and broken promises, she decided she was finally through with the relationship.

    Usage

    Often used with 'with' when referring to a task or person.
  5. 7 direct travel (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    traveling to a destination without needing to change trains or buses.

    describing a journey or vehicle that proceeds to a destination without requiring a transfer.

    Example

    Is this a through train to London, or do I have to change?

    Example

    The airline recently introduced a through flight to Singapore, significantly reducing the total travel time for passengers from this region.
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