通す（とおす） means continue through to the end. It is a JLPT N3 grammar pattern used to show doing something continuously or all the way through.
This grammar point often appears in neutral Japanese. If you want to show doing something continuously or all the way through, 通す（とおす） is a useful pattern to learn.
What does 通す（とおす） mean?
Use 通す（とおす） when you want to show doing something continuously or all the way through.
Natural translations include:
- continue through to the end
The best translation depends on the sentence. Try to notice the writer’s or speaker’s purpose first, then choose the English phrase that fits that context.
How to form 通す（とおす）
Examples of the pattern:
- やり通す
- 働き通す
- 読み通す
The form before the grammar point matters. In JLPT questions, the wrong answer choices often use a similar meaning but attach it to the wrong type of word.
When is 通す（とおす） used?
Use 通す（とおす） in situations like:
- explaining grammar in context
- answering JLPT reading questions
- making natural Japanese sentences
Tone and register:
- neutral
- Common in JLPT reading, grammar questions, and natural Japanese sentences
通す（とおす） example sentences
After reading each sentence, ask what job 通す（とおす） is doing: showing doing something continuously or all the way through. That makes the nuance easier to remember than a one-word translation.
Nuance of 通す（とおす）
The key nuance is a natural way to express “continue through to the end” with the right context and tone.
This matters because 通す（とおす） does more than match a single English phrase. It shows how the speaker frames the condition, timing, example, role, intention, or contrast in the sentence.
For example:
- In context, it sounds natural when the surrounding sentence supports the nuance.
- Compared with 続ける, it has a different focus and level of formality.
通す（とおす） vs 続ける
Both 通す（とおす） and 続ける can appear in related situations, but they are different.
通す（とおす）:
- means continue through to the end
- fits the specific N3 pattern and nuance explained above
続ける:
- 続ける means continue; 通す emphasizes persistence all the way through a period or to the end
Quick contrast examples:
- Target: 最後までやり通すことが大切だ。 — It is important to carry it through to the end.
- Compare: Try replacing it with 続ける and check whether the nuance still matches.
If both translations seem possible, check the tone. Is the sentence casual, formal, written, explanatory, or emotional? The tone often tells you which grammar point is natural.
Common mistakes with 通す（とおす）
A helpful practice method is to write one sentence with 通す（とおす）, then rewrite it with 続ける. If the meaning or tone changes, explain that difference in your own words.
Is 通す（とおす） on the JLPT?
Yes. 通す（とおす） is commonly taught as JLPT N3 grammar.
- recognize it in reading
- understand its nuance in context
- use it in simple original sentences
For test preparation, study the grammar point in full sentences. JLPT questions often test whether you understand the surrounding context, not just the dictionary meaning.
Practice questions for 通す（とおす）
Keep your first sentences simple. Once the structure feels natural, add more context so the nuance becomes clear.
Learning path for 通す（とおす）
Related grammar to review next
- 続ける — because it is the closest comparison used in this article.
Learn 通す（とおす） with Hane
If you want to review 通す（とおす） together with the related patterns above, Hane helps you connect grammar, kanji, and vocabulary in short, focused sessions.
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FAQ about 通す（とおす）
What does 通す（とおす） mean in Japanese?
通す（とおす） means “continue through to the end” in Japanese. It is an N3 grammar point, and this lesson explains its formation, nuance, example sentences, common mistakes, and similar grammar.
Is 通す（とおす） on the JLPT?
通す（とおす） is taught as N3 Japanese grammar in Hane's grammar lesson archive. Review it with examples, usage notes, and related N3 patterns.
How should I practice 通す（とおす）?
Read several example sentences, identify the form before and after 通す（とおす）, then make your own short sentences and compare it with nearby grammar points.