English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Every nook and cranny
Meaning
The idiom "every nook and cranny" means every possible corner, crevice, or space. It is used to describe someone who pays great attention to detail and leaves no stone unturned when looking for something or solving a problem.
Usage
- After searching every nook and cranny of the warehouse, the missing item was finally found.
- The detective left no stone unturned, examining every nook and cranny of the crime scene.
- The chef's attention to detail in the kitchen was impressive; they even checked under the stovetop burners and behind the oven door for spills.
- The computer virus had infected every nook and cranny of the company's network, causing chaos among employees and customers.
- The archaeologist carefully excavated every nook and cranny of the ancient ruins, uncovering artifacts that had been lost to time.
Roots and History
The idiom "every nook and cranny" is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages when buildings were made from stone and wood. The phrase refers to searching every possible crevice and corner for something, such as a hidden treasure or a piece of wood that could be used to build a bridge or ship. Over time, the idiom has been used to describe someone who pays great attention to detail and leaves no stone unturned when looking for something or solving a problem.
Synonyms in English
- Leave no stone unturned
- Explore every nook and cranny
- Search every inch of the place
- Examine everything closely
- Look under every rock
Synonyms in other languages
- Tout le monde (French) - Means "everyone" or "all" and can be used to describe someone who pays attention to detail and covers all their bases when searching for something.
- Jeder Mensch und Pflanze auf der Erde (German) - Means "every person and plant on earth" and emphasizes the thoroughness of the search.
- 모든 흔물 (Korean) - Literally means "all treasures" and can be used to describe someone who looks for hidden gems or valuable items in every nook and cranny.
- いずれから どこまで (Japanese) - Means "from any direction, to any extent" and emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the search.
- تلقين كل صفحة (Arabic) - Means "to read every page" and can be used to describe someone who is thorough in their research or reading material.