fit through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fit through" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to describe the action of forcing something through an opening that is narrower than the object. For example, "She carefully slid the envelope through the mail slot, barely able to fit through the small opening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Will fit through letter box.

The Guardian - Tech

The pack easily fit through security scanners.

TechCrunch

The tile should easily fit through the square opening when positioned along the diagonal.

WikiHow

We just can't fit through the door".

The New Yorker

Bloom & Wild Fresh flowers that fit through the door.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Plus could not fit through their rock-wall opening.

The New Yorker

The lines represent a linear fit through the data points.

Nature

But it does not fit through his door.

The New York Times

Starlings cant fit through holes smaller than 1 1/2".

Cornell University

Those blimpy guys could never fit through a stock car window.

The New York Times - Sports

Even so, a rat can fit through a hole the size of a quarter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "fit through" to clearly indicate that an object's dimensions allow it to pass through an opening. For example, "The package will easily fit through the letterbox."

Common error

Avoid using "fit through" metaphorically when a more appropriate verb would better convey the intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "The explanation didn't fit through my understanding", use "The explanation didn't align with my understanding."

Linguistic Context

Fit through functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the ability of an object to pass or be forced through an opening or space. Ludwig confirms this usage through its examples, which frequently involve physical objects and spatial constraints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fit through" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrasal verb that describes the ability of an object to pass through an opening. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its frequent appearance in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, avoid misusing it metaphorically. Remember, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, "fit through" specifically relates to physical dimensions and passage, and it is important to use it accurately to convey precise meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pass through

Emphasizes the action of moving from one side of an opening or space to the other.

go through

A more general term for experiencing or enduring something, but can also describe physical passage.

squeeze through

Implies a tight fit and some difficulty in passing.

maneuver through

Suggests careful navigation to get through a space.

thread through

Describes moving through a narrow or winding space.

creep through

Describes a slow, careful movement.

wiggle through

Describes twisting to get through.

slide through

Implies a smooth motion.

make it through

Focuses on the successful completion of passing through something, often implying difficulty.

scale through

Suggests moving through an ordered arrangement

FAQs

How can I use "fit through" in a sentence?

"Fit through" indicates the ability of an object to pass through a space. For example, "The key was small enough to fit through the lock's opening."

What are some alternatives to "fit through"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "pass through", "go through", or "squeeze through". Choose the alternative that best conveys the specific nuance you intend.

Is it correct to say "fitted through" instead of "fit through"?

"Fitted through" is the past tense of "fit through", so it is correct to use it when referring to a past event: "The custom-made tool was perfectly "fitted through" the narrow gap."

What's the difference between "fit through" and "go through"?

"Fit through" specifically indicates that something's dimensions allow it to pass, while "go through" is a more general term that can refer to any kind of passage or experience. For instance, you might "go through" a difficult time, but a package would "fit through" a slot.