Thru vs. Through

alternative spellings

This time, we're gonna delve into the differences and similarities between these two words. Wanna learn more? Well, why don't you join me?

"Thru" vs. "Through" in the English Grammar

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both have the same pronunciations. Both function as a preposition and an adverb. However, 'through' is the standard form in written English, whereas, 'thru' is only used in informal speech.

Differences

We use 'through' in standard, written English. It functions as a preposition, an adverb, and an adjective. Look at the following examples:

As you move through the jungle, careful not to bump into different animals.

Here, 'through' is a preposition.

They rushed through when the doors swung open.

'Thru' is the informal form of 'through' in speech and daily conversations. Check out the following examples:

I haven't seen any cafes with drive-thrus in my country.

Look, there's the drive-thru.

Similarities

They are the same. 'Thru' is the informal, speech form of 'through'. Look at the examples below:

Just head in the drive-thru and you'll get your coffee there.

He ran his hands through his hair and sighed.

Are They Interchangeable?

They are only interchangeable only when they are used in informal speech. Compare:

✓ They disappeared through the jungle.

X They disappeared thru the jungle.

As mentioned above, this is only common in informal speech.

Comments