Definition

Verb phrase: - To search for something or try to achieve something with the utmost thoroughness and diligence, exploring every possible avenue and missing no opportunity.

Usage

This phrase is used to emphasize an exhaustive and meticulous effort. It is often employed in contexts involving investigation, problem-solving, or preparation. - It functions as a verb phrase, typically following a subject (e.g., "We will," "The team left"). - It is commonly used in the future tense to express determination or in the past tense to describe a completed thorough effort.

Examples

• The detectives left no stone unturned in their investigation of the crime scene.
• We must leave no stone unturned to find a solution to this crisis.
• She left no stone unturned while preparing for the final exam, studying every single chapter.

Advanced Usage

• To leave no stone unturned can be used in a figurative sense beyond physical searching. It applies to any situation requiring comprehensive effort.
  • The researchers left no stone unturned in their quest for a vaccine.
• It can be modified with adverbs for emphasis.
  • We will literally leave no stone unturned.

Variants and Related Words

• Leave nothing to chance: To plan for every possible contingency.
• Turn over every stone: A less common variant with the same meaning.
• Exhaustive (adj): Including or considering all elements or aspects; fully comprehensive.
• Meticulous (adj): Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.

Synonyms

• Search high and low: To look for something everywhere.
• Go to great lengths: To try very hard to achieve something.
• Explore every avenue: To investigate every possible option.
• Do one's utmost: To do everything one can.

Related Idioms

• Pull out all the stops: To make a very great effort to achieve something.
• Bend over backwards: To try extremely hard to help or please someone.
• Leave nothing undone: To complete every necessary task.

Verb

1. search thoroughly and exhaustively
   • The police left no stone unturned in looking for the President's murderer