Leave no stone unturned
/liːv noʊ stoʊn ʌnˈtɜːrnd/neutral, formalUK · US · AU · IE · CA
What does “Leave no stone unturned” mean?
Leave no stone unturned means to try every possible method or look in every place to solve a problem or find something.
This idiom means doing everything you possibly can to reach a goal. You check every detail, test every option, and never stop until the job is completely done.
It sounds determined and serious. People often use it in professional or dramatic situations to show deep commitment and care.
When do people say it?
People say this when they promise to do a very thorough search or investigation.
“The police promised to leave no stone unturned to find the missing child.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: neutral, formal. It is most at home in both everyday conversation and professional writing. Most common in UK and US and AU and IE and CA.
Where does it come from?
This phrase comes from an ancient Greek legend about finding hidden treasure after a war. The Oracle of Delphi advised the searcher to move every single rock.
Origin confidence: Well documented
How do you say “Leave no stone unturned” in other languages?
Last reviewed 2026-09-11