ENGLISH
REFERENCE

wipe the slate clean

idiom
Meaning

To make a fresh start, for example by forgetting about previous differences and disagreements.


Examples
SIMPLE

Let's forget our argument and wipe the slate clean.

CONTEXTUAL

After years of conflict, the two neighbors decided to wipe the slate clean and become friends.

COMPLEX

The new manager hoped that by ignoring past failures and focusing on future goals, the team could finally wipe the slate clean.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    clean as a hound's tooth

    Very clean.

  2. 02

    clean as a whistle

    Very clean.

  3. 03

    clean break

    The complete termination of a relationship, or an exit from a situation.

  4. 04

    clean hands

    Freedom from guilt, especially from the guilt of dishonesty in money matters, or of bribe-taking.

  5. 05

    clean money

    Money that is legally or honestly gained or earned.

  6. 06

    clean someone's clock

    To defeat someone decisively, in a physical fight or other competition or negotiation.

  7. 07

    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.

  8. 08

    clean up one's act

    To reform; to improve one's habits.

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