see through (someone or something)

see through (someone or something)

To not be fooled by someone's or something's outward appearance and understand their or its true nature. He always acts so generous and magnanimous, but I can see right through him—he only cares about himself, really. I think most people see through the company's flimsy PR spin and understand that this deal is a huge rip-off.
See also: see, through
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

saw through something

to cut through something with a saw. I can't saw through this wood. It's too hard! I can saw through it!
See also: saw, through

see something through

to follow through on something until it is completed. Mary is prepared to see the project through. It's going to be an unpleasant experience, but I hope you'll see it through.
See also: see, through

see through someone or something

 
1. Lit. [for one's vision] to penetrate something clear or opaque or a person. Of course, I can see through the window! With x-rays, they can see through your body!
2. Fig. to understand or detect the true nature of someone or something. You can't fool me anymore. I can see through you and all your tricks. This plan is designed to make money for you, not to help people. I can see through it! I'm not a fool!
See also: see, through
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

see through

1. see through someone or something . Understand the true character or nature of someone or something, as in We saw through his superficial charm: he was obviously a liar. [c. 1400]
2. Also, see out. Remain with an undertaking to the end; also, provide steadfast support to. For example, I saw the reorganization through and then I left the company, or We'll see out the year in Florida and then decide if the move is permanent, or We'll see you through medical school but then you're on your own.
See also: see, through
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

see through

v.
1. To apprehend one's true nature or character despite some affectation or deception: We saw through his superficial charm.
2. To cause or help someone to manage or survive: I have enough savings to see me through a month without work. We'll see you through until you finish college.
3. To work on some project until completion: We are determined to see the project through.
See also: see, through
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • show (someone or something) up as (something)
  • show up
  • show up as
  • read (someone or something) as (someone or something)
  • read as
  • a ragged colt may make a good horse
  • colt
  • ragged
  • a track record
  • you get (back) what you give