Go over/through something with a fine-tooth/fine-toothed comb
phrase
To examine or look at something very carefully and in a lot of detail.
The lawyer went over the contract with a fine-tooth comb before signing it.
Often appears as...
- go over the contract with a fine-tooth comb
- go through the report with a fine-tooth comb
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To examine or look at something very carefully and in a lot of detail.
The lawyer went over the contract with a fine-tooth comb before signing it.
Often appears as...
- go over the contract with a fine-tooth comb
- go through the report with a fine-tooth comb
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Attention to Detail
Use this phrase when precision is crucial and even small details are important.
The editor went through the manuscript with a fine-tooth comb.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
The phrase is often used metaphorically and not for physical objects.
She went over her memories with a fine-tooth comb, trying to remember where she had seen him before.
Pro Tip 3/3No Quick Process
Implies a process that is slow, thorough, and careful, opposite of a quick check.
The accountant went through the financial records with a fine-tooth comb.
Pro Tip 1/3Attention to Detail
Use this phrase when precision is crucial and even small details are important.
The editor went through the manuscript with a fine-tooth comb.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
The phrase is often used metaphorically and not for physical objects.
She went over her memories with a fine-tooth comb, trying to remember where she had seen him before.
Pro Tip 3/3No Quick Process
Implies a process that is slow, thorough, and careful, opposite of a quick check.
The accountant went through the financial records with a fine-tooth comb.
Pro Tip 1/3Attention to Detail
Use this phrase when precision is crucial and even small details are important.
The editor went through the manuscript with a fine-tooth comb.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
The phrase is often used metaphorically and not for physical objects.
She went over her memories with a fine-tooth comb, trying to remember where she had seen him before.
Pro Tip 3/3No Quick Process
Implies a process that is slow, thorough, and careful, opposite of a quick check.
The accountant went through the financial records with a fine-tooth comb.
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