Definition

Noun: 1. A comb with teeth set very close together: A physical grooming tool designed for detailed hair care, such as removing lice, nits, or distributing products evenly. 2. A method of examining something in minute detail: A metaphorical expression describing a very thorough and meticulous search or investigation, leaving no part unchecked.

Usage Examples

• Literal (Physical Comb):
  • She used a fine-tooth comb to remove the tangles from her child's hair.
  • For effective lice treatment, you need a fine-tooth comb.
• Metaphorical (Thorough Examination):
  • The auditor went over the accounts with a fine-tooth comb.
  • Before buying the house, they inspected it with a fine-tooth comb.

Advanced Usage

• "to go over/through something with a fine-tooth comb": This is the standard idiomatic phrase. It emphasizes an exhaustive search for errors, clues, or details.
  • The editor went through the manuscript with a fine-tooth comb.
• "to use a fine-tooth comb on something": A less common but acceptable variant of the idiom.
  • We need to use a fine-tooth comb on these financial statements.

Variants and Related Words

• Fine-toothed comb: An accepted alternative spelling and pronunciation. The meaning is identical.
• Nit comb: A specific type of fine-tooth comb used for removing lice eggs (nits).
• Meticulous (adj): Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise. (Describes the of the examination).
• Scrutiny (n): Critical observation or examination. (Describes the of examining closely).

Synonyms

• Thorough search
• Close scrutiny
• Detailed inspection
• Painstaking examination

Related Idioms

• Leave no stone unturned: To try every possible course of action in order to achieve something. This idiom shares the concept of thoroughness but is broader than the detailed examination implied by "fine-tooth comb."
  • The detectives left no stone unturned in their investigation.
• Dot the i's and cross the t's: To pay meticulous attention to detail. This idiom focuses on correctness in details, often in documents, similar to the metaphorical use of "fine-tooth comb."
  • Before submitting the report, make sure to dot all the i's and cross all the t's.

Noun

1. a method of examining in minute detail
   • he went over the contract with a fine-tooth comb looking for loopholes
2. a comb with teeth set close together