clear up
- 01 B1 Intermediate
to solve a problem or explain something so there is no more confusion.
to resolve a misunderstanding or clarify a confusing situation.
Simple“I hope this meeting will clear up any confusion about the new rules.”
In context“The management team issued a formal statement to clear up the misconceptions regarding the proposed restructuring plan.”
UsageThis sense is transitive and requires an object like 'confusion', 'mystery', or 'misunderstanding'.
- 02 B1 Intermediate
to make a place neat by putting things away or cleaning.
to make a place tidy by removing unwanted items or organising a mess.
Simple“Could you help me clear up the kitchen after we finish dinner?”
In context“The volunteers spent the entire afternoon clearing up the park after the music festival had concluded.”
UsageIn British English, this is often used where American speakers might prefer 'clean up'.
- 03 B1 Intermediate
when clouds or rain go away and the weather becomes better.
of weather or the sky: to become bright, calm, or free of clouds and rain.
Simple“It's raining now, but the forecast says it should clear up by noon.”
In context“Although the morning was marred by heavy fog, the sky began to clear up just as the outdoor ceremony was scheduled to begin.”
UsageThis sense is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
Antonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
when an illness or a skin problem goes away.
to disappear or heal, typically in reference to a minor illness, infection, or skin condition.
Simple“The doctor said my cough should clear up in a few days with some rest.”
In context“The rash began to clear up almost immediately after she started applying the prescribed ointment twice a day.”
UsageUsually intransitive when referring to the condition itself.
this is a polysemous phrasal verb; use a 'weather vs. problem' matching activity to help students distinguish between the intransitive and transitive uses.