expression

leave no stone unturned

to search thoroughly

In Idioms & Sayings

In more detail

(idiom) to try every possible way to find or achieve something; to do everything you can to accomplish a goal

Examples

The police left no stone unturned in their search for the missing child.

How to use leave no stone unturned

This idiom is used when someone is determined to achieve something by trying every possible method or investigating every possibility. It often appears in contexts involving problem-solving, investigation, or pursuit of a goal. The phrase carries a positive connotation of diligence and thoroughness, suggesting admirable persistence rather than recklessness.

Common phrases

leave no stone unturned in
leave no stone unturned to find
leave no stone unturned in one's search
determined to leave no stone unturned
willing to leave no stone unturned

Synonyms

explore every avenue · do everything possible · exhaust all options · spare no effort · search thoroughly

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'turn no stone' or 'leave no rocks unturned' instead of the correct fixed form.

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