a fine-grained gray, green, or bluish metamorphic rock easily split into smooth, flat pieces, a flat piece of slate used for writing on, typically framed in wood, formerly used in schools, a list of candidates for election to a post or office, typically a group sharing a set of political views

clean slate, on the slate, wipe the slate clean

Formal and Informal Expressions of slate

In different contexts, you can replace 'slate' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'record, register, roster' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'list, schedule, timetable' is a commonplace synonym.

slate: Explore its Definition & Usage

slate Definition

1a fine-grained gray, green, or bluish metamorphic rock easily split into smooth, flat pieces
2a flat piece of slate used for writing on, typically framed in wood, formerly used in schools
3a list of candidates for election to a post or office, typically a group sharing a set of political views

Using slate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "slate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The roof was made of slate tiles.
Example
He wrote his name on the slate with chalk.
Example
The party has announced its slate of candidates for the upcoming election.

slate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for slate

Antonyms for slate

Phrases with slate

clean slate
a situation in which the past events are forgotten and a new start is made
Example
After the divorce, she wanted a clean slate and moved to a new city.
on the slate
recorded as a debt or an obligation to be paid later
Example
The drinks were put on the slate and paid at the end of the month.
wipe the slate clean
to forget past mistakes and start again with a fresh perspective
Example
After the company's bankruptcy, the new CEO decided to wipe the slate clean and rebrand the business.

Origins of slate

from Old French 'esclate', feminine past participle of 'esclater', meaning 'to break'

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Summary: slate in Brief

The term 'slate' [sleɪt] refers to a fine-grained rock that can be split into flat pieces, a flat piece of slate used for writing, and a list of candidates for election. It is used in phrases like 'clean slate,' meaning a fresh start, and 'on the slate,' meaning recorded as a debt. 'Slate' is also used to describe a timetable or schedule.