passes through

USAGE SUMMARY

"passes through" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to denote an action in which someone or something physically passes from one location or state to another, usually indicating movement. For example: "The river passes through the city before emptying into the sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Glutamate easily passes through blood brain barrier [ 31].

Disease Markers

Stage 7 passes through similarly level ground.

Independent

The energy passes through the water.

The New Yorker

The Mozambique Current passes through the strait.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each Tour passes through them.

The Guardian - Travel

A shudder passes through me.

The Guardian - Travel

The light passes through them.

The New York Times

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail also passes through.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A visitor passes through an airy corridor.

Harvard University

The road passes through paddy-fields.

Cornell University

The sun's energy just passes through.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "goes through" or "crosses" when the context requires a less literal or more nuanced meaning of traversal.

Common error

Avoid using "passes through" when describing abstract concepts where "experiences" or "undergoes" would be more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "the company passes through a crisis", use "the company experiences a crisis".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "passes through" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating movement or transition from one location or state to another. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it describes physical traversal, as well as instances where it refers to a process or experience. The auxiliary verb 'passes' indicates the third-person singular present tense.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

27%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "passes through" is a versatile phrase primarily used to describe physical movement or transition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. While frequently found in science, news, and encyclopedic sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal writing. Remember to consider the specific context when choosing between "passes through" and alternatives like "goes through" or "crosses", and avoid overusing it in abstract situations where other verbs might be more fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moves through

Highlights the act of progression and movement within a specified space or medium.

goes through

Focuses on the process of experiencing or enduring something, adding a layer of implication related to undergo.

runs through

Often used to describe paths or routes, suggesting a continuous flow or connection through a particular area.

transits

Implies a more formal or technical crossing, often used in astronomical or transportation contexts.

flows through

Specifically refers to the movement of liquids or other fluid substances, adding a sense of continuous motion.

crosses

Emphasizes the act of moving from one side to another, focusing on the boundary being traversed.

makes its way through

Suggests effort or difficulty in moving through a particular obstacle or situation, adding a sense of determination.

traverses

Suggests a journey or exploration across a particular area, implying a more extensive passage.

permeates

Implies a thorough and pervasive spread, suggesting a more diffused or encompassing passage.

navigates

Highlights the act of skillfully maneuvering or guiding oneself through a complex or challenging environment.

FAQs

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

The phrase "passes through" is used to describe movement or transition from one point or state to another. For example, "The river "passes through" the valley", or "Light "passes through" the prism".

What are some alternatives to "passes through"?

Alternatives to "passes through" include "goes through", "crosses", "transits", and "moves through", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "passes through" formal or informal?

"Passes through" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality often depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "passes through" and "goes through"?

While both phrases indicate movement or experience, "passes through" typically refers to physical movement or spatial transition. "Goes through", on the other hand, often suggests experiencing a process or undergoing a change, as in "He "goes through" a difficult time".