right through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "right through" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a direct or uninterrupted passage through something, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The river flows right through the heart of the city, providing a beautiful view for all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Those who have influence pass right through".

The New York Times

I eased right through.

The New York Times

Literally, right through him.

The New York Times

He marched her right through.

The New Yorker

He sees right through us".

The New Yorker

Sparks could come right through.

The New York Times

Went right through the fence.

The New York Times

"We sailed right through.

The New York Times - Sports

Call went right through.

The New Yorker

My arrow passed right through him.

The New York Times - Magazine

Your teeth fall right through them.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "right through" to emphasize a direct and unobstructed path, whether physical or metaphorical. For example, "The company cut right through the red tape to get the project approved."

Common error

Avoid using "right through" excessively in formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound too informal. Consider using alternatives like "directly through" or "completely through" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "right through" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb to indicate the direction or manner of an action. Ludwig's examples show it describing physical movement or metaphorical penetration, like "went right through the fence" or "cuts right through that".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "right through" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating direct and unimpeded passage or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives like "directly through" in academic or highly professional writing. Common usage includes physical descriptions (e.g., "The bullet went right through") and metaphorical applications (e.g., "She saw right through his lies"). The semantic alternatives include phrases emphasizing directness and straightforwardness. Remember that source authority is high due to frequent appearances in reputable outlets.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

directly through

Emphasizes a more straightforward and immediate passage.

straight through

Highlights a linear, unobstructed path.

clear through

Indicates a complete and unimpeded passage.

all the way through

Emphasizes the entirety of the passage, from start to finish.

completely through

Focuses on the thoroughness of the passage.

piercing through

Suggests a forceful entry or penetration.

penetrating through

Similar to 'piercing through', but with a more scientific or technical connotation.

seeing through

Refers to understanding or perceiving something that is hidden or deceptive.

cutting through

Implies overcoming obstacles or barriers.

passing through

Focuses on the act of moving or transitioning through a space or situation.

FAQs

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

The phrase "right through" can be used to describe a direct passage, either physically or metaphorically. For example, "The bullet went "straight through" the target", or "She saw "immediately through" his deception".

What are some alternatives to "right through"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "directly through", ""straight through"", "completely through", or "all the way through".

Is it correct to say "right through" or should I use another phrase?

"Right through" is a perfectly acceptable and commonly used phrase. Its appropriateness depends on the context. In formal writing, you might consider more precise alternatives like "directly through" or "entirely through".

What's the difference between "right through" and "straight through"?

While both phrases indicate a direct passage, "straight through" often emphasizes a linear, unobstructed path, whereas "right through" can also imply a complete or thorough passage. The phrases are highly interchangeable depending on the context, with nuances related to path shape.