peer through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "peer through" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of looking closely or intently at something, often through an opening or a barrier. Example: "She had to peer through the foggy window to see what was happening outside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

I squatted down to peer through.

The New Yorker

In Malvolio (Edmond Genest), Mr. Discher's ideas peer through.

The New York Times

From across the street, busybodies can peer through her windows.

The New York Times - Arts

But politicians also peer through the prism of self-interest.

The New York Times

Now let's peer through the pettifog and strategize.

The New York Times

There's a portcullis that I peer through after-hours.

The New Yorker

You might as well peer through thick coffee," he said.

The New Yorker

When you peer through the verbal fireworks, what lies beyond?

The New York Times

(In Street View, you can peer through a pirate's telescope).

The New York Times

'It's a mystery," mountain guide Fernando Santamaria says, as we peer through an arched doorway.

The Guardian - Travel

Through that same window, Calder and Petra peer through a "wobble of old glass".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "peer through" when you want to emphasize the effort or difficulty in seeing something, often implying an obstruction or a small opening.

Common error

Avoid using "peer through" when a simple observation is intended. "Look through" is more appropriate for general viewing without any implication of difficulty or obstruction. For example, say "look through the documents" instead of "peer through the documents" if you just need to examine the documents.

Linguistic Context

Peer through functions as a phrasal verb indicating the act of looking intently or with difficulty, often implying an obstruction or a small opening. Ludwig examples show it used in contexts ranging from physical barriers like windows to metaphorical barriers like 'pettifog'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "peer through" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, primarily found in News & Media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples. It describes the action of looking intently, often implying an obstruction. While alternatives like "look through" or "gaze through" exist, "peer through" specifically emphasizes the effort or difficulty in seeing. Understanding its nuances helps writers use it effectively and avoid common errors. Remember to reserve "peer through" for situations where observation involves overcoming a barrier or requires careful attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

peek through

This suggests a furtive or secretive look.

look through

This alternative is more general and doesn't necessarily imply a close or careful examination.

gaze through

This suggests a more prolonged and perhaps dreamy or unfocused look.

view through

This is a more neutral and formal way to describe looking at something.

stare through

This implies a fixed, unwavering gaze, possibly with intensity.

observe through

This suggests a more detached and analytical way of watching something

examine through

This emphasizes a careful and detailed inspection.

scan through

This suggests a rapid and comprehensive looking

scrutinize through

This suggests a critical and detailed observation.

glance through

This implies a quick and casual look.

FAQs

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

You can use "peer through" when describing the action of looking closely or intently at something, often through an opening or a barrier. For example, "She had to peer through the foggy window to see what was happening outside."

What are some alternatives to "peer through"?

You can use alternatives like "look through", "gaze through", or "peek through", depending on the context.

What is the difference between "peer through" and "look through"?

"Peer through" implies more effort and intent in looking, often suggesting an obstruction or small opening, while "look through" is a more general term for observation.

Is "peer through" formal or informal?

"Peer through" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is frequently found in news and media, which tend to adopt a neutral register. Its appropriateness depends on the overall tone and style of the writing.