fine-toothed

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The word "fine-toothed" is an adjective used to describe something that has very small or close-set teeth. It is often used to describe a type of comb, a "fine-toothed comb," which has narrow spaces between its teeth.

Simple Explanation:

• Fine-toothed means that the object has small teeth that are placed very close together.

Usage Instructions:

• You typically use "fine-toothed" to describe combs, but it can also refer to other tools or items that have closely spaced fine teeth, like certain types of saws or brushes.

Example:

• "She used a fine-toothed comb to carefully untangle her hair."

Advanced Usage:

• In a broader sense, "fine-toothed" can describe any situation where something is examined very carefully or in detail. For example: "The auditor went through the financial records with a fine-toothed comb."

Word Variants:

• The word "fine" can be used on its own to describe something that is delicate or thin.
• "Toothed" refers to having teeth, and it can be used with other adjectives to describe the type of teeth (e.g., "sharp-toothed," "broad-toothed").

Different Meanings:

• In addition to describing physical items, "fine-toothed" can also imply meticulousness or thoroughness when analyzing or checking something.

Synonyms:

• Close-set
• Narrow-toothed
• Detailed (in a figurative sense)

Idioms:

• The phrase "to go through something with a fine-toothed comb" means to examine something very carefully or to look for small details.

Phrasal Verbs:

• While there are no specific phrasal verbs directly related to "fine-toothed," you might encounter phrases like "look over" or "check out," which can imply careful examination.

Summary:

"Fine-toothed" refers to items with closely spaced fine teeth, commonly used to describe combs. It can also imply thoroughness in examination.

Academic

Adjective

1. having fine teeth set close together
   • a fine-toothed comb

Synonyms

• fine-toothed
• fine-tooth