Synonyms for

Thorough

Verb / ˈθɜ:əʊ / / ˈθɔ:rəʊ / Another word for thorough — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

complete with regard to every detail; not superficial or partial

Synonyms & similar words

thoroughgoing exhaustive complete comprehensive meticulous detailed systematic exhaustive careful accurate precise painstaking rigorous methodical scrupulous thoroughgoing intensive profound full entire absolute total

Synonyms by register

Formal

comprehensive meticulous exhaustive scrupulous

Informal

complete detailed in-depth all-out

Literary

diligent painstaking

Antonyms

careless hasty superficial cursory negligent sloppy inattentive

Common collocations

  • thorough investigation
  • thorough check
  • thorough review
  • thorough cleaning
  • thorough understanding
  • thorough examination
  • thoroughly enjoy

Word family

adjective thorough
adverb thoroughly

Usage note

Thorough implies a high degree of care and completeness. It is often used to describe processes, examinations, or understanding.

Example sentences

  1. He did a thorough job of washing his hands for 20 seconds.
  2. She read the book thoroughly before writing her book report.
  3. The doctor gave him a thorough physical exam.
  4. The detective conducted a thorough investigation to solve the crime.
  5. The teacher went through the lesson thoroughly to make sure the students understood it.

Quotes

  • It's a very thorough report, and it shows a lot of progress. - Jeb Bush
  • Success demands singleness of purpose. - Vince Lombardi
  • A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education. - Teddy Roosevelt

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words