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clear

n.
A2 Elementary Oxford US //ˈkɫɪɹ// UK //klˈiə// clear General-service

n. Easy to understand, see through, or be sure about. You can also use it to describe a sky with no clouds or a sound that is easy to hear.

n. Easily perceived, understood, or transparent; unambiguous. It also describes weather free from clouds or sound that is distinct and audible.


SIMPLE

The instructions are very clear.

CONTEXTUAL

From the top of the hill, we had a clear view of the entire valley.

COMPLEX

It became clear during the debate that the candidate had no practical solution for the economic crisis, despite his confident rhetoric.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English clere, from Anglo-Norman cler, from Old French cler (Modern French clair), from Latin clarus. Displaced native Middle English schir (“clear, pure”) (from Old English scīr (“clear, bright”)), Middle English skere (“clear, sheer”) (from Old English scǣre and Old Norse skǣr (“sheer, clear, pure”)), Middle English smolt (“clear (of mind), serene”) (from Old English smolt (“peaceful, serene”)). Cognate with Danish klar, Dutch klaar, French clair, German klar, Italian chiaro, Norwegian klar, Portuguese claro, Romanian clar, Spanish claro, and Swedish klar.

Usage

Can be used before a noun ('a clear day') or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem' ('the water seems clear'). It is often followed by a 'that'-clause to introduce a fact.

Pitfall

The window is clean.The window is clear.Learners sometimes confuse 'clear' (transparent) with 'clean' (not dirty). A window can be clean but not clear (e.g., frosted glass), or clear but not clean.

Idioms10 entries

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