Thoroughly vs. Thorough — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 25, 2024
"Thoroughly" is an adverb describing how something is done with great attention to detail, while "thorough" is an adjective describing something that is done completely, with no detail overlooked.
Difference Between Thoroughly and Thorough
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Thoroughly" refers to the manner in which an action is performed, emphasizing a complete or exhaustive approach in execution. In contrast, "thorough" qualifies the completeness of the action itself, denoting that all elements or aspects are meticulously addressed.
When you act "thoroughly," you are engaging with the task at hand in a detailed and comprehensive way. Whereas "thorough" describes the exhaustive nature of the task itself, suggesting that nothing has been missed out.
A "thoroughly" cleaned room implies that the cleaning process was carried out extensively. On the other hand, a "thorough" cleaning denotes that every possible area has been cleaned, without specifying the method of execution.
In instructions, when someone is told to explain something "thoroughly," it means the explanation should cover all bases in depth. Conversely, a "thorough" explanation might not detail the process but ensures that all key points are touched upon.
Reviewers might describe a book as "thoroughly" entertaining, indicating the consistent and pervasive enjoyment throughout the reading. Whereas, calling the research behind the book "thorough" suggests that it was done comprehensively, covering all relevant areas.
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Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adverb
Adjective
Focus
Method or manner of execution
Completeness of the execution
Usage Example
"He cleaned the house thoroughly."
"Her preparation for the test was thorough."
Implication
Exhaustive action
Exhaustive completeness
Common Phrases
"thoroughly enjoyed"
"thorough examination"
Compare with Definitions
Thoroughly
Completely, with great attention to detail.
She checked the report thoroughly before submitting.
Thorough
Done with great attention to detail.
The investigation was thorough and revealed the facts.
Thoroughly
In an exhaustive manner.
The team prepared thoroughly for the debate.
Thorough
Including every possible part or detail.
She gave a thorough description of the event.
Thoroughly
To a full extent; totally.
They were thoroughly convinced of the need for change.
Thorough
Exhaustive or comprehensive.
They conducted a thorough review of the literature.
Thoroughly
With all parts included.
He explained the rules thoroughly to avoid confusion.
Thorough
Very careful or complete.
His preparation for the presentation was thorough.
Thoroughly
With thoroughness.
The room was cleaned thoroughly.
Thorough
Meticulous or scrupulous.
The contract was thorough in covering all legalities.
Thoroughly
Exhaustively complete
A thorough search.
Thorough
In 17th century England, Thorough was a name given by Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford to a scheme of his to establish absolute monarchy in England. Although "Thorough" is largely attributed to Strafford, its implementation can also be accredited to the Archbishop of Canterbury William Laud.
Thoroughly
Painstakingly accurate or careful
Thorough research.
Thorough
Complete with regard to every detail; not superficial or partial
Planners need a thorough understanding of the subject
Thoroughly
Absolute; utter
A thorough pleasure.
Thorough
Exhaustively complete
A thorough search.
Thoroughly
Variant of through.
Thorough
Painstakingly accurate or careful
Thorough research.
Thoroughly
In a thorough or complete manner.
He went out in the rain and came back thoroughly drenched.
The editor looked thoroughly for any mistakes in the paper.
Thorough
Absolute; utter
A thorough pleasure.
Thoroughly
In a thorough manner; fully; entirely; completely.
Thorough
Variant of through.
Thoroughly
In a complete and thorough manner (`good' is sometimes used informally for `thoroughly');
He was soundly defeated
We beat him good
Thorough
Painstaking and careful not to miss or omit any detail.
The Prime Minister announced a thorough investigation into the death of a father of two in police custody.
He is the most thorough worker I have ever seen.
The infested house needs a thorough cleansing before it will be inhabitable.
Thoroughly
In an exhaustive manner;
We searched the files thoroughly
Thorough
Utter; complete; absolute.
Thorough
(obsolete) Through.
Thorough
A furrow between two ridges, to drain off the surface water.
Thorough
Through.
Thorough
Passing through; as, thorough lights in a house.
Thorough
Passing through or to the end; hence, complete; perfect; as, a thorough reformation; thorough work; a thorough translator; a thorough poet.
Thorough
Thoroughly.
Thorough
Through.
Thorough
A furrow between two ridges, to drain off the surface water.
Thorough
Painstakingly careful and accurate;
Our accountant is thorough
Thorough research
Thorough
Very thorough; exhaustively complete;
An exhaustive study
Made a thorough search
Thoroughgoing research
Common Curiosities
How does "thorough" describe a process?
It describes the process as comprehensive and complete, covering all necessary parts.
What is an example of "thorough" in a sentence?
"The manual provides thorough instructions on assembly."
What does "thoroughly" imply about an action?
It implies that the action was done with great depth and attention to every detail.
What is an example of "thoroughly" in a sentence?
"The detective investigated the case thoroughly."
In what types of documents is "thorough" commonly found?
Academic, legal, and technical documents where detail and completeness are crucial.
Can "thoroughly" and "thorough" be used interchangeably?
No, "thoroughly" is an adverb modifying how something is done, while "thorough" is an adjective describing the nature of something.
Is "thorough" related to thoroughness in all contexts?
Yes, it consistently relates to the quality of being detailed and complete.
Why is it important to use "thorough" correctly?
It ensures clarity in communication, especially in formal or detailed contexts.
How does the usage of "thoroughly" affect the tone of a statement?
It adds a sense of depth and exhaustiveness to the action described.
What kind of actions typically get described as "thoroughly" done?
Tasks that require careful attention to detail, like cleaning or reviewing.
How can understanding the difference enhance writing skills?
It helps in choosing the correct word based on whether the focus is on the action's manner or its completeness.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
