1 A2 neutral
For light to pass through a material or barrier and be visible on the other side.
"Morning sunshine was shining through the curtains when she finally woke up."
inseparable
shine through
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To be clearly visible or apparent, especially a positive quality that is evident despite obstacles or concealment.
In plain English
When something good or true becomes obvious and visible, even though other things might be trying to hide it.
What does "shine through" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic neutral
For a positive quality, feeling, or characteristic to become clearly apparent despite other factors.
"Despite her nerves, her genuine passion for the subject shone through during the interview."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
Light passing all the way through a material and becoming visible on the other side.
Actually means
When something good or true becomes obvious and visible, even though other things might be trying to hide it.
Usage tip
Frequently used figuratively to describe qualities like talent, kindness, or emotion becoming evident. Very natural in everyday English. Also used literally for light passing through a surface.
Words that pair with "shine through"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
talent passion kindness determination light personality emotion
How to conjugate "shine through"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
shine through
I/you/we/they
3rd person
shines through
he/she/it
Past simple
shined through
yesterday
Past participle
shined through
have + pp
-ing form
shining through
continuous
Hear "shine through" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "shine through" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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