Fine tooth combing is a meticulous and thorough process of examining and searching through something with extreme attention to detail. The term originated from the practice of using a comb with very closely spaced teeth to carefully comb through hair, typically after washing, in order to remove any tangles or impurities. Over time, this practice became metaphorical and is now commonly used to describe a meticulous examination or search of any kind.
When applied to a situation or task, fine tooth combing implies a rigorous and meticulous approach that leaves no stone unturned. It suggests a thorough and detailed investigation, analysis, or scrutiny of a situation, document, or any other entity to ensure no errors, omissions, or inconsistencies remain.
Fine tooth combing is often associated with a careful review to detect any flaws, inconsistencies, or hidden issues that might not be immediately apparent. It involves carefully combing through each aspect, thoroughly examining every detail to ensure accuracy, completeness, and tightness of any work being done.
This phrase can also be used in a negative sense, implying an unnecessarily excessive or nitpicky approach to examining something, where the level of detail and scrutiny may not be warranted or productive. Nevertheless, in general, fine tooth combing refers to a diligent method employed to ensure meticulousness and precision while investigating, analyzing, or examining something intently.
