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go over with a fine-tooth comb

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go over something with a fine-tooth comb

 and search something with a fine-tooth comb; go through something with a fine-tooth comb

Fig. to search through something very carefully. I can't find my calculus book. I went over the whole place with a fine-tooth comb. I searched this place with a fine-tooth comb and didn't find my ring.

See also: comb

go over something with a fine-tooth comb

also go through something with a fine-tooth comb

to examine every part of something very carefully My accountant is going over my tax return with a fine-tooth comb.

Usage notes: also used in the form fine-toothed comb

See also: comb