What does “Clean sweep” mean?
"Clean sweep" means to completely remove or eliminate something.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The team had a clean sweep of all their opponents in the tournament.
Example
The company is planning a clean sweep of their outdated technology.
Example
After the renovation, the house had a clean sweep of all the old furniture
Is “Clean sweep” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Clean sweep” 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 “Clean sweep” effectively in context?
You can use "Clean Sweep" to describe a situation where something is completely removed or eliminated. It emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of the action. For example, if a team wins all their games in a tournament, you might say, 'They had a clean sweep of all their opponents.'
- 1Sports
The team had a clean sweep of all their opponents in the tournament.
- 2Technology
The company is planning a clean sweep of their outdated technology.
- 3Home Improvement
After the renovation, the house had a clean sweep of all the old furniture.
Similar phrases to “Clean sweep”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Clean sweep” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Clean Sweep" is unknown.
Is “Clean sweep” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Clean Sweep" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe situations where something is completely removed or eliminated.
What tone does “Clean sweep” have?
"Clean Sweep" conveys a tone of thoroughness and completeness. It implies that nothing is left behind and everything has been taken care of.
Can “Clean sweep” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Clean Sweep" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The team had a clean sweep of all their opponents.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time for a "clean sweep"!' to imply the need for a thorough cleaning or elimination of something.
