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Region: General | Usage example: They left no stone unturned during the investigation.

Leave no stone unturned

Meaning

Search thoroughly.

Usage

Used when describing exhaustive efforts.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Ancient idea of moving stones to inspect beneath.

Used in literature since the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Get two birds with one stone

Achieve two things with one effort.

Cast the first stone

Be the first to criticize, only if you are faultless.

Kill two birds with one stone

Accomplish two objectives with a single action.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.