start with a clean sheet of paper
Synonym of start with a clean sheet.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I made too many mistakes, so I started with a clean sheet of paper.”
“The project was a mess, so we decided to delete the files and start with a clean sheet of paper.”
“Realizing that their previous strategy was fundamentally flawed, the team chose to abandon their progress and start with a clean sheet of paper.”
- 01
cheat sheet
Any summary or quick reference used as a shortcut or reminder, such as an aid for public speaking.
- 02
clean as a hound's tooth
Very clean.
- 03
clean as a whistle
Very clean.
- 04
clean break
The complete termination of a relationship, or an exit from a situation.
- 05
clean hands
Freedom from guilt, especially from the guilt of dishonesty in money matters, or of bribe-taking.
- 06
clean money
Money that is legally or honestly gained or earned.
- 07
clean someone's clock
To defeat someone decisively, in a physical fight or other competition or negotiation.
- 08
clean up
To become clean, handsome, smart in appearance, e.g. for a special occasion, especially when it is out of character to be seen as such.
Last updated August 10, 2026