What does “A clean hand wants no washing.” mean?
"A clean hand wants no washing" means that a person with a clear conscience or who has done no wrong has no need to worry or be afraid because an honest person has nothing to hide and needs no cleansing.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I have nothing to hide. A clean hand wants no washing. I have always been honest and transparent in my actions.
Example
Why are you so worried? A clean hand wants no washing. If you have done nothing wrong, there is no need to be afraid.
Example
I don't understand why they are so paranoid. A clean hand wants no washing. If they have a clear conscience, they should have nothing to worry about
Is “A clean hand wants no washing.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“A clean hand wants no washing.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “A clean hand wants no washing.” effectively in context?
You can use "A clean hand wants no washing" to emphasize that a person with a clear conscience or who has done no wrong has no need to worry or be afraid. It implies that an honest person has nothing to hide and needs no cleansing. For example, if someone is concerned about being accused of a wrongdoing, you might say, 'Don't worry, if you have done nothing wrong, a clean hand wants no washing.'
- 1Personal Integrity
When falsely accused of cheating, she remained calm and said, 'A clean hand wants no washing. I have always been honest in my studies.'
- 2Trustworthiness
When applying for a job, he confidently stated, 'A clean hand wants no washing. I have never been involved in any unethical practices.'
- 3Innocence
After being questioned by the police, she asserted, 'A clean hand wants no washing. I have no involvement in the crime.'
Similar phrases to “A clean hand wants no washing.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “A clean hand wants no washing.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "A clean hand wants no washing" is unknown.
Is “A clean hand wants no washing.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "A clean hand wants no washing" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more often found in written texts or formal speeches.
What tone does “A clean hand wants no washing.” have?
"A clean hand wants no washing" conveys a tone of assurance and confidence. It is used to reassure someone or assert one's innocence.
Can “A clean hand wants no washing.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "A clean hand wants no washing" is considered formal. It is typically used in more serious or professional contexts, such as legal proceedings, interviews, or discussions about personal integrity.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He confidently stated, 'A clean hand wants no washing. I have never been involved in any unethical practices.'' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'A clean hand wants no washing' to imply innocence or lack of guilt.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- honesty is the best policy
- no smoke without fire
- in the clear
- nothing to hide
- clear conscience
Antonyms
- guilty conscience
- skeletons in the closet
- dirty hands
- shady dealings
- covering up
