Definition of run through

The phrase "run through" initially referred to a theatrical practice that allowed actors to rehearse their lines and stage movements without the use of scenery, props, or costumes. This type of rehearsal, where actors would run their dialogue quickly and repeatedly, helped them perfect their performances before moving on to fully-staged productions. The term itself is a combination of the words "run" and "through," both of which have their own meanings in English. "Run" can signify a swift motion, such as the act of running, and can also refer to the flow or continuity of something, like a stream of water or a line of text. "Through" can be used to indicate a location at the end of a path, as well as a completion or thoroughness, like running something through a filter or analyzing it thoroughly. When combined, "run through" creates a phrase that encompasses the idea of quickly and thoroughly going over something for practice or review, much like an actor might do before taking the stage. The meaning of the phrase has since expanded to include other contexts, such as running through a checklist, running through a presentation, or running through some calculations or analysis.