What is thorough? Pronunciation and usage in English

thorough means . Learn how to pronounce and use thorough through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of thorough

thoroughadjective

/ˈθʌrə/
Definition & pronunciation of thorough

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "thorough." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Initial "Th":

  • This "th" sound is a voiceless dental fricative. It’s the same sound you make when you say "thin" or "this." Your tongue should be lightly touching the back of your top teeth.

2. The "ough":

This is where it gets complicated! The "ough" in "thorough" has several pronunciations depending on the word. In "thorough," it's pronounced like "oh" (as in "go").

Putting it together:

The full pronunciation of "thorough" should be:

THOR-oh

  • Stress is on the first syllable – "THOR."

Tips to help you:

Common Mistakes:

  • Saying "thoo-row" (with a "row" sound)
  • Pronouncing the "ough" as "off."

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you another word that uses this "ough" sound to practice?

Usage and examples with the word thorough in English

Let's break down how to use the word "thorough" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a specific meaning – meaning complete and detailed. Here's a breakdown of how to use it, with examples:

1. As an Adjective (Describing a Process or Action)

This is the most common usage. "Thorough" describes something done completely and meticulously.

  • Meaning: Complete, detailed, exhaustive, careful, meticulous.
  • Examples:
    • "The detective conducted a thorough investigation of the crime scene." (He investigated very carefully and in detail.)
    • "She gave a thorough review of the book, covering every chapter." (She was very detailed in her assessment.)
    • "The company performed a thorough audit of its finances." (They checked everything very carefully.)
    • “He took a thorough cleaning of the apartment.” (He cleaned it completely, ensuring no spot was missed.)

2. As an Adjective (Describing a Person)

You can describe someone as "thorough" if they are known for being meticulous and careful.

  • Meaning: Diligent, meticulous, conscientious, careful.
  • Examples:
    • “She’s a thorough editor – she doesn’t let anything slip through.” (She’s very careful and detailed in her editing.)
    • “He’s a thorough planner, always thinking about every possible detail.” (He’s meticulous and considers everything.)

3. Used with Phrases & Idioms

  • "Thoroughly examine" / "Thoroughly investigate" / "Thoroughly consider": These phrases mean to investigate, examine, or consider something very carefully and completely.

    • “The police are thoroughly investigating the theft.”
    • "We need to thoroughly examine the evidence before making a decision."

  • “Be thorough”: This is a command – telling someone to do something carefully and completely.

    • “Please be thorough when packing for the trip.”

Tips for Using "Thorough" Effectively:

  • Synonyms: While "thorough" is great, consider alternatives to add nuance:

    • Detailed: Focuses on providing lots of specific information.
    • Comprehensive: Means covering everything completely.
    • Exhaustive: Suggests a very deep and complete investigation.
    • Meticulous: Emphasizes extreme care and precision.

  • Don't Overuse: Using "thorough" too often can make your writing sound repetitive. Choose stronger words when possible.

  • Context is Key: The best way to understand how to use "thorough" is to see it in context.

Resources for More Examples:

To help me give you even more specific advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a report, an email, a story?)
  • What is the context of the word "thorough" you're trying to use?

Synonyms for the word thorough

Practice with vocabulary thorough

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Before launching the new product, the development team conducted a __________ review of all safety protocols and potential risks.
  2. The auditor performed a __________ examination of the company's financial records, leaving no transaction unchecked.
  3. Despite the tight deadline, the project manager ensured that all team members remained __________ and focused on their individual tasks.
  4. The article offered only a __________ overview of the complex topic, prompting readers to seek more in-depth information elsewhere.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following best describes an investigation that leaves no stone unturned and covers every detail? a) casual b) superficial c) thorough d) hasty

  2. To ensure the success of the clinical trial, researchers must conduct a(n) __________ analysis of the patient data. (Select all that apply) a) comprehensive b) cursory c) thorough d) in-depth

  3. The architectural blueprint provided a __________ depiction of the building's structure and systems, detailing every measurement and material. (Select all that apply) a) precise b) loose c) complete d) thorough

  4. Before signing the contract, it's essential to __________ read all the terms and conditions. a) carelessly b) rapidly c) carefully d) incidentally

  5. The university library boasts a(n) __________ collection of historical documents, covering centuries of global events. a) extensive b) limited c) exclusive d) intense

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The police meticulously investigated every piece of evidence found at the crime scene. Rewrite using "thorough" or a related word form:

  2. Original: Her understanding of quantum physics was extremely detailed and complete. Rewrite using "thorough" or a related word form:

  3. Original: The preliminary report only gave a quick, general overview of the market trends. Rewrite without using "thorough" but using a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. thorough
  2. thorough
  3. diligent (or attentive/focused)
  4. superficial (or brief/cursory)

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) thorough
  2. a) comprehensive, c) thorough, d) in-depth
  3. a) precise, c) complete, d) thorough
  4. c) carefully
  5. a) extensive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The police conducted a thorough investigation of every piece of evidence found at the crime scene.
  2. Her understanding of quantum physics was thorough. (or She understood quantum physics thoroughly.)
  3. The preliminary report only gave a cursory overview of the market trends.

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