What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
through
Example
I walked through the park to get to the other side. [through: preposition]
Example
We need to go through all the steps to complete the project. [through: adverb]
Example
I read through the entire novel in one sitting. [through: preposition]
past
Example
I drove past the gas station without stopping. [past: preposition]
Example
In the past, people used to communicate by writing letters. [past: noun]
Example
She has moved past her fear of public speaking. [past: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Past is more commonly used than through in everyday language. Past is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while through is less common and often used in specific contexts such as physical movement or processes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between through and past?
Both through and past are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
