leave no stone unturned

/liːv noʊ stoʊn ʌnˈtɜːrnd/
phrase★Intermediate— to make every possible effort◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
To make every possible effort to achieve something, especially by examining all available options or possibilities.
Literal Meaning
To physically turn over every stone in a given area.
Literal Breakdown
leaveto not disturb or move+no stonenot a single stone+unturnednot flipped over
◇ Mental Image
The mental image is of someone physically turning over every stone in a search for something hidden underneath, symbolizing thoroughness and diligence.
◈ When to Use
A detective is investigating a crime and has examined every possible clue and lead, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of the truth.
◉ Cultural Note
This idiom has been used in English for centuries and is often associated with thoroughness and determination in various contexts, from detective work to academic research.
informal

To make every possible effort to achieve something, especially by examining all available options or possibilities.

She left no stone unturned in her search for the perfect job.

She made every possible effort to find the perfect job.

The team left no stone unturned to find a solution to the problem.

The team exhausted all possible options to solve the problem.

💡

This idiom is often used to emphasize thoroughness and determination.

Related Phrases

turn over every stoneidiom
to examine all possible options or possibilities
spare no effortphrase
to make every possible effort

💡Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use this idiom when you want to emphasize that someone has been very thorough and determined in their efforts.

⚡Gold Rule

Rule of Thoroughness

This idiom is used to describe someone who has made every possible effort to achieve a goal, often by examining all available options.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from the literal act of turning over stones to find something hidden underneath, symbolizing thoroughness and diligence.

📝Usage Notes

This idiom is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe someone who is very thorough and determined in their efforts.

English Dictionary