Idiom B2 Formal / Informal

Leave no stone unturned

Try every possible option; make every effort to achieve something

Meaning

Leave no stone unturned — To try everything possible; to make every effort to find something or achieve a goal. It describes an exhaustive, thorough approach in which no option is overlooked.

Origin & History

The phrase traces back to an ancient Greek legend about the Battle of Plataea (479 BC). After the battle, a general was said to have been told by the Oracle of Delphi to search for hidden treasure by turning over every stone. The advice proved successful, and the expression passed into Greek proverbial use.

It entered English in the 16th century and has been used ever since to describe a determined, exhaustive search or effort. Today it appears in journalism, politics, and professional contexts as well as everyday speech.

Example Sentences

ContextSentence
InvestigationThe detective promised to leave no stone unturned in her search for the missing child.
Job searchHe left no stone unturned when looking for a new position — he applied to over forty companies.
Medical careThe doctors said they would leave no stone unturned to find the cause of her illness.
BusinessOur team will leave no stone unturned to deliver this project on time and within budget.
Political speechThe minister pledged that the government would leave no stone unturned in tackling corruption.
Personal effortShe left no stone unturned preparing for the exam — she studied every chapter twice.

How to Use It

This idiom works in both formal and informal contexts. It is especially common in news reporting, political speeches, and professional promises of thoroughness. Use it when you want to stress that every possible option has been or will be explored. It is typically used with leave (present/future) or left (past tense).

Common Mistakes

Mistakes to Avoid

We will turn no stone unturned to find the answer.

We will leave no stone unturned to find the answer. — The verb is leave, not turn.

She left no stones unturned in her investigation.

She left no stone unturned in her investigation. — Stone stays singular; do not pluralise it.

He will leave no stone unturned finding a solution.

He will leave no stone unturned in finding a solution. — Use in (or to) before the following verb phrase.

Similar Idioms

Go the extra mile Pull out all the stops Move heaven and earth Cover all the bases All Idioms →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Leave no stone unturned" mean?
"Leave no stone unturned" means to try everything possible and make every effort to achieve something. It describes a thorough, exhaustive approach where no option is overlooked.
Where does the idiom "Leave no stone unturned" come from?
The phrase traces back to an ancient Greek legend about the Battle of Plataea. After the battle, a general was told by the Oracle of Delphi to search for hidden treasure by turning over every stone. The phrase entered English in the 16th century and has been used ever since.
Can you give an example of "Leave no stone unturned" in a sentence?
Here is an example: "The detective promised to leave no stone unturned in her search for the missing child." — used when describing a determined, thorough investigation.
Is "Leave no stone unturned" formal or informal?
Both formal and informal. It is common in speeches, news reports, and professional contexts, as well as in everyday spoken English. It works well in both writing and conversation.
What CEFR level is "Leave no stone unturned"?
This idiom is typically taught at B2 level. It is an upper-intermediate expression that appears in a wide range of spoken and written English contexts, including journalism, business, and formal speeches.
What are common mistakes with "Leave no stone unturned"?
A common mistake is using the wrong verb — for example, saying "turn no stone unturned" instead of "leave no stone unturned". Another error is pluralising "stone" — the correct form always uses the singular: leave no stone unturned.
What idioms are similar to "Leave no stone unturned"?
Similar idioms include: Go the extra mile, Pull out all the stops, Move heaven and earth, Cover all the bases. These all express making a maximum effort or being thorough, though they differ slightly in nuance and context.
How do I practise idioms like "Leave no stone unturned"?
LexFizz's Flash Cards and Flip Tiles exercises are great for practising English idioms. Try to write your own example sentences using the idiom in context, and listen for it in news broadcasts, podcasts, and professional speeches.
Can "Leave no stone unturned" be used in writing?
Yes. Unlike many idioms that are restricted to informal contexts, "leave no stone unturned" is widely accepted in formal writing, journalism, business communication, and political speeches. It conveys determination and thoroughness effectively.
Does "Leave no stone unturned" have the same meaning in British and American English?
Yes, "leave no stone unturned" is understood in both British and American English with the same meaning: to make every possible effort and be completely thorough. It is widely recognised in all major varieties of English.