The phrase "comb through" is spelled with "c-o-m-b" as in the hair styling tool and "t-h-r-o-u-g-h" as in movement from one side to another. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /kəʊm θruː/. The first syllable "kəʊm" is pronounced with the vowel sound "oʊ" as in "go" and the consonant sound "m". The second syllable "θruː" is pronounced with the consonant sound "θ" as in "thin" and the vowel sound "uː" as in "glue".
The phrase "comb through" refers to the meticulous and thorough process of carefully examining or searching through something, such as a document, a database, or a physical space, in a systematic and detailed manner. It involves a methodical scrutiny to locate, identify, or extract specific information, elements, or details.
When used in reference to documents, "comb through" suggests analyzing each page, line, and word with great attention to detail, often to extract relevant information, identify errors, or establish accuracy. This process often requires a careful examination, comparison, or cross-referencing to ensure comprehensive understanding or to identify any discrepancies.
Similarly, when "comb through" pertains to a physical space, it implies a thorough inspection, usually involving carefully checking every nook and cranny, examining objects, or meticulously searching for any specific item, evidence, or traces.
Typically, "comb through" implies a time-consuming activity that demands patience, diligence, and precision. It often involves an organized approach, where each element or section is examined individually before moving on to the next. The objective is to leave no stone unturned, ensuring that nothing is overlooked or missed.
Overall, "comb through" denotes a comprehensive and detailed exploration, analysis, or search, aimed at extracting specific information or achieving a thorough understanding of the subject matter at hand.
The phrase "comb through" is derived from two separate words with their own etymology: "comb" and "through".
1. "Comb": The noun "comb" comes from the Old English word "camb", which has Germanic origins. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "kambaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*gombh-" or "*gembh-", meaning "tooth" or "horn". The original meaning of "comb" referred to a toothed instrument used for arranging or grooming hair or wool.
2. "Through": The word "through" originated from the Old English word "þurh" or "thurch" which has Germanic roots. It is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*thurkh" or "*thurkō".