through and through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "through and through" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is complete or thorough, or to someone who is truly devoted to or experienced in something. For example: "He was a criminal through and through; he had been in and out of jail for most of his adult life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's design through and through".

The New York Times

It's charm, through and through.

The New York Times - Arts

"A Texan through and through".

The New York Times

A beautiful being through and through.

The New York Times

I'm an optimist through and through.

The New York Times

That was her father, through and through.

The New Yorker

"They are Jacksonville, through and through".

The New York Times - Food

He is a character, through and through.

The New York Times - Arts

He was an entertainer through and through.

Independent

This country is corrupt through and through".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Oh, and they're Democrats, through-and-through.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "through and through" to emphasize a complete or fundamental quality. For example, instead of saying "He is a dedicated musician", say "He is a musician through and through" to add more emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "through and through" to describe physical movement unless referring to a specific type of wound (a bullet wound). The phrase is primarily used to describe inherent qualities or complete dedication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through and through" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the meaning of the word or phrase it modifies. It emphasizes the completeness or thoroughness of a quality or action, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverbial phrase "through and through" is a common and grammatically correct way to emphasize the completeness or fundamental nature of a quality or characteristic. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is usable in written English, and its examples demonstrate frequent use in news and media. While its register leans toward neutral to informal, it effectively communicates thoroughness and dedication. To enhance your writing, use "through and through" to add emphasis, but be mindful of avoiding literal interpretations related to physical movement. Consider alternatives like "completely and utterly" or "to the core" for varying degrees of formality and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the core

Indicates that something is a fundamental part of someone's nature or essence.

in every fiber of one's being

Suggests that a quality is deeply felt and intrinsic.

completely and utterly

Emphasizes the totality and absoluteness of a characteristic or action.

wholly and entirely

Highlights the comprehensive and undivided nature of something.

every inch

Emphasizes the completeness of a characteristic or quality.

down to the ground

Implies a fundamental and deeply ingrained quality.

from beginning to end

Focuses on the entire duration of a process or experience.

in all respects

Indicates that something is true or applicable in every way.

through thick and thin

Indicates unwavering loyalty or support in all circumstances.

from head to toe

Emphasizes a complete and thorough physical characteristic.

FAQs

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

Use "through and through" to emphasize that someone or something completely embodies a certain quality or characteristic. For example, "He's a New Yorker "through and through"".

What does "through and through" mean?

"Through and through" means completely, entirely, or fundamentally. It emphasizes the thoroughness or completeness of something.

Is it acceptable to use "through and through" in formal writing?

While commonly used in news and media, "through and through" is generally considered informal. Consider more formal alternatives like "completely" or "entirely" in academic or business contexts.

What are some alternatives to saying "through and through"?

Alternatives to "through and through" include "completely and utterly", "wholly and entirely", or "to the core", depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.