通过 (tōngguò) is a versatile word meaning 'through', 'via', or 'by means of' when used as a preposition, and 'to pass (an exam, review, or approval process)' when used as a verb. The character 通 (tōng) conveys 'connection', 'access', or 'smooth passage', while 过 (guò) adds the sense of 'passing across' or 'completion'. Together, they emphasize movement across a boundary or successful completion of a process.

This word is frequently used in formal and semi-formal contexts — especially for approvals (e.g., proposals, exams, applications), methods of communication (e.g., email, phone), or physical passage (e.g., tunnels, checkpoints). Unlike colloquial alternatives like 经过 (jīngguò), 通过 often implies intentionality, authorization, or official validation. It’s rarely used for casual physical movement (e.g., walking past a store); for that, 经过 or 走过 is more natural.