Grammar Tips
Getting It Write
"Through" &
"Threw"
In our continuing series focusing on effective writing,
we examine common grammar mistakes. Good writing, free of error, allows
the reader to concentrate on your message. It is always a good idea to
reread your newsletter one more time before you print it. Even
better—get someone else to read it. While preparing for your next
newsletter, consider this common grammatical error.
Proper use of “through” and “threw”
can be tricky. Because they sound the same, it can be hard to remember
which form is correct.
Remember This Rule
“Through” actually has many meanings, ranging
from “in one side and out the opposite” to “among or between.” It
can also mean “by way of” or “done or finished.”
Examples:
“He climbed in through the window.”
“She contacted us through her attorney.”
“He pushed his plate away when he was through.”
“Threw” is the past tense of “throw.”
Example:
“He threw the ball.”
Be careful about using “thru.” It is an
informal form of through, and shouldn’t be used in professional
writing.
