Differences between clean out and fish out
Clean out usually means to remove all the contents of something, especially when it's dirty or cluttered. Fish out, on the other hand, means to take something out of water or a container using a hook or your hands.
Meanings and Definitions: clean out vs fish out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Clean out
- 1Tidy up thoroughly and throw away unwanted things..
I really must CLEAN the study OUT; there's stuff all over the floor and piles of paper everywhere.
- 2Cause someone to spend all their money.
The holiday CLEANED me OUT- I'm broke till the end of the month.
Fish out
- 1Remove something from a bag, pocket, etc.
She reached into her handbag and FISHED some coins OUT.
- 2Remove from water, such as the sea, rivers, etc.
It's fallen in the pool- I'll have to FISH it OUT.
Usage Examples: clean out, fish out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
clean out
Example
I need to clean out my closet; it's full of clothes I don't wear anymore.
Example
She cleans out her garage every spring.
fish out
Example
She fished out her keys from her purse.
Example
He fishes out his wallet to pay for the meal.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clean out
empty out
To remove all the contents of something, especially when it's dirty or cluttered.
Example
He had to empty out the fridge before leaving for vacation to avoid any spoiled food when he returned.
tidy up
To clean and organize a space or area, making it neat and orderly.
Example
She always tidies up her desk before leaving work to start the next day with a clear mind.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fish out
To get back or recover something that was lost or misplaced.
Example
He had to retrieve his keys from the bottom of the pool after accidentally dropping them.
dig up
To find or uncover something by searching or investigating.
Example
He dug up some old photos from his childhood and shared them with his family during dinner.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “clean”
Phrasal Verbs with “fish”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in clean out vs fish out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: clean out or fish out?
In daily conversation, people use clean out more often than fish out. This is because clean out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as cleaning a closet or a fridge. Fish out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about fishing or retrieving something from water. So, while both phrases are used, clean out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of clean out and fish out
Clean out and fish out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of clean out and fish out
The tone of clean out and fish out can differ based on context. Clean out often carries a practical or determined tone when related to decluttering or organizing, while fish out typically has a playful or adventurous tone, especially when referring to fishing or retrieving something from water.
