thru
prep.prep. a shorter, informal way to write 'through'. You use it to show movement from one side to the other or to describe something that lasts from a start time to an end time.
prep. a non-standard, phonetic spelling of 'through' used to indicate movement across an interior or a duration of time. Common in American English informal writing and signage.
The store is open Monday thru Friday.
The sign at the construction site warned that no traffic would be allowed thru the main gates after dark.
While traditional style guides reject the spelling in formal essays, it appears frequently in commercial contexts, such as 'drive-thru' windows, where brevity and visual impact are prioritized over standard orthography.
Modern use originated in American English as a phonetic and simplified spelling of through around 1839. The spelling had previously been one of several used in Middle English.
Informal spelling; primarily used in American English for signs, schedules, and casual messaging.
I read thru the book in a formal report.I read through the book in a formal report.The spelling 'thru' is considered incorrect in academic, professional, or formal British English contexts.