English Reference

Word

unturned

Phoneticsun·turned, stress on the second syllable

US/ənˈtɝnd/

UK/ʌntˈɜːnd/

Definition

adj. describing something that has not been checked or looked at. You use it when you want to say that no possible solution or place has been missed.

adj. not having been examined, checked, or searched. Often used in the phrase 'leave no stone unturned' to indicate exhaustive effort.

Examples

“The detective left no stone unturned in the search for clues.”

“The team worked through the night to ensure every possible lead was followed and no stone was left unturned.”

“In the aftermath of the scandal, the committee vowed to leave no stone unturned in their investigation, scrutinizing every document and interview to find the source of the leak.”

Examples

simple

“The detective left no stone unturned in the search for clues.”

contextual

“The team worked through the night to ensure every possible lead was followed and no stone was left unturned.”

complex

“In the aftermath of the scandal, the committee vowed to leave no stone unturned in their investigation, scrutinizing every document and interview to find the source of the leak.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “unturned” in context.

01. unturned in their quest

Real-World Examples

“Toss Master Kyle Mathews, co-organiser of the event, said an official tournament geologist had been appointed this year, leaving no stone unturned in keeping the 400 challengers in order.”
BBC News 4 Sept 2026
“We’re going to make sure that we leave no stone unturned, and that’s what we’re going to get on with.”
The Guardian 21 Aug 2026

Idioms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference