Thru vs. Through
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?
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
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-
Look, there's the drive-
Similarities
They are the same. 'Thru' is the informal, speech form of 'through'. Look at the examples below:
Just head in the drive-
He ran his hands
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.