Term: see through

see through (phrasal verb) /siː θruː/

This phrasal verb has two primary meanings: one related to detecting deception and the other to completing a commitment.

1. To detect the truth

To realize that someone is telling a lie or to understand the true nature of a situation, despite an attempt to hide it. LV: prozret, saredzēt (patiesību), neļaut sevi apmānīt.

• Example: “I could see through his excuses immediately; I knew he hadn’t actually finished the report.”
• Example: “Experienced security analysts can often see through a phishing email even if the branding looks legitimate.”

2. To complete something

To continue with a task or project until it is finished, especially when it is difficult or boring. LV: pabeigt līdz galam, novest līdz galam.

• Example: “It was a grueling project, but we were determined to see it through to the end.”
• Example: “Even though the company was going through a rough patch, the CEO promised to see through the restructuring process.”

3. See-through (adjective)

When used with a hyphen, it describes a material that you can see through (transparent or thin). LV: caurspīdīgs.

• Example: “The envelope was slightly see-through, so I could tell there was a check inside.”

Common Phrases:

• See right through someone: To understand someone’s true (usually negative) character or intentions perfectly.”She’s very manipulative, but I see right through her.”