Translation guide
The English phrase 'high and low' is used in two main ways: as an idiom meaning 'everywhere' (searching high and low), and literally to refer to people of all social ranks or to high and low positions/levels. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each use.
To express that someone searched everywhere, in every possible place.
Literally 'to search without leaving any nook or cranny'. A common, natural way to say 'search high and low'.
I searched high and low for my keys.
Literally 'to search from corner to corner'. Emphasizes thoroughness.
I searched the room high and low, but couldn't find it.
Means 'to search here and there'. A bit less intense than 'high and low', but very common.
I searched high and low, but my wallet is missing.
Means 'to search around' or 'to hunt around'. Implies moving from place to place.
I'm searching high and low for a new apartment.
To refer to everyone from the highest to the lowest in society.
Literally 'old and young, men and women'. Used to mean 'everyone, regardless of age or gender', often implying all social strata.
The movie is popular among people of all ages and walks of life.
Literally 'from top to bottom'. Can refer to social hierarchy or an organization.
Formal/literary: 'regardless of high or low status'. Used in contexts like 'open to all, regardless of rank'.
To describe things that are physically high and low, or varying levels.
The English idiom 'search high and low' should not be translated word-for-word into Japanese. Phrases like 高く低く探す (takaku hikuku sagasu) are unnatural. Use the options above instead.
Everyone in the company, high and low, knows that rumor.
The school admitted students high and low, regardless of social standing.