Ever paused mid-sentence wondering whether to write through or thru? You’re not alone!
Many students, writers, and even professionals get tangled up between these two spellings.
People often search for through or thru to confirm which one looks right in formal writing versus casual chats or signs like “drive-thru.”
Don’t worry — you’ve just landed in the right place. In this quick guide, we’ll clear up the confusion, show you when to use each, and help your writing flow smoothly every time.
Through or Thru – Quick Answer
Both “through” and “thru” mean the same thing — moving in one side and out the other.
✅ “Through” is the standard and formal spelling, used in writing, education, and professional settings.
✅ “Thru” is the informal, simplified version, commonly seen in signs, texting, or phrases like “drive-thru.”
Examples:
- ✅ She walked through the forest. (Formal and correct everywhere)
- ✅ Let’s go thru the tunnel. (Casual, informal)
In short: use “through” for all formal writing and “thru” only for casual or short-form communication.
The Origin of Through or Thru
The word “through” dates back to Old English “þurh” (pronounced thurkh) meaning “from end to end.”
Over centuries, spelling simplified, and around the 20th century, Americans began using “thru” as a phonetic spelling — matching pronunciation more closely.
The push for simpler spelling was part of a broader movement led by reformers like Noah Webster, who also changed colour → color and centre → center.
However, “through” remained dominant worldwide because of its strong historical and literary use.
British English vs American English Spelling
| Context | British English | American English | Common Use Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formal writing | Through | Through | “He drove through the city.” |
| Informal writing | Rarely uses “thru” | Uses “thru” sometimes | “Drive-thru restaurant” |
| Official documents | Through | Through | “Contract valid through 2026.” |
| Street or signboards | Through | Thru | “Drive-thru open 24 hours” |
Summary:
- British English: Always uses through.
- American English: Accepts thru informally but prefers through formally.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
It depends on your audience:
- US readers: “Thru” is understood but “through” is still preferred for professional writing.
- UK/Commonwealth readers: Always use “through.” “Thru” looks incorrect.
- Global audience: Stick with “through” for clarity and credibility.
Pro tip:
If you’re writing an email, article, or school essay — always use through.
If you’re naming a brand or creating signage — thru can look modern and catchy.
Common Mistakes with Through or Thru
❌ Incorrect: We went thru the report before submission.
✅ Correct: We went through the report before submission.
❌ Incorrect: The tunnel goes throughout the mountain.
✅ Correct: The tunnel goes through the mountain.
❌ Incorrect: Please send your files thru email.
✅ Correct: Please send your files through email.
Tip: Avoid thru in any context that’s formal, academic, or official.
Through or Thru in Everyday Examples
- Emails: “Let’s read through the proposal again.”
- Social Media: “Going thru tough times, but still smiling 😊.”
- News: “Traffic moving through downtown will be redirected.”
- Signs: “24-hour Drive-Thru Pharmacy.”
- Texting: “Got thru the exam!”
👉 Notice how context changes the tone — “through” feels formal, while “thru” feels conversational.
Through or Thru – Google Trends & Usage Data
Recent Google Trends data shows:
- “Through” is searched 10x more often than “thru.”
- “Thru” spikes mostly in North America, especially related to “drive-thru” and texting slang.
- In countries like the UK, Canada, and India, “through” dominates almost entirely.
| Keyword | Global Popularity | Common Context |
|---|---|---|
| Through | 85% | Writing, business, education |
| Thru | 15% | Informal, signage, texting |
FAQs – Through or Thru
1. Is “thru” grammatically correct?
Yes, it’s informal but understood in casual contexts. Avoid it in formal writing.
2. Is “through” American or British?
Both use “through.” It’s the correct spelling worldwide.
3. Why do Americans use “thru”?
It’s a phonetic, simplified spelling promoted during spelling reform movements.
4. Can I use “thru” in essays or reports?
No. Always use “through.”
5. Is “drive-thru” correct spelling?
Yes — “drive-thru” is an accepted business term.
6. Which is older: through or thru?
Through — it’s centuries older than thru.
7. Does “through” have different meanings?
Yes — it can mean movement (through a door), completion (read through a book), or medium (through email).
Conclusion
The difference between “through” and “thru” comes down to formality and audience.
While both mean the same, “through” is the universally accepted spelling — perfect for education, business, and global communication.
Use “thru” only when you’re being casual, creative, or following signage conventions like “Drive-Thru.”
If you’re ever unsure, remember: you’ll never go wrong with “through.”
Hi, I’m Ernest Hemingway, the author of GrammarNestly.com.
I’m a grammar expert and language enthusiast who loves making English simple and practical.
When I’m not writing about grammar, I enjoy reading, exploring new writing styles, and helping others improve their communication skills.
