What does “Clean slate” mean?

"Clean slate" means having the opportunity for a fresh start or a new beginning.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

After the divorce, she wanted a clean slate and moved to a new city.

Example

He decided to quit his job and start his own business, giving himself a clean slate.

Example

The team had a terrible season last year, but now they have a new coach and a clean slate

Is “Clean slate” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Clean slate” 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 slate” effectively in context?

You can use "Clean Slate" to refer to a fresh start or a new beginning. It implies leaving behind past mistakes, problems, or negative experiences and starting with a clean and fresh perspective. For example, if someone wants to make a fresh start after a breakup, you might say, 'Moving to a new city will give you a clean slate.'

1Personal Life
After the divorce, she wanted a clean slate and moved to a new city.
After the divorce, she wanted a clean slate and moved to a new city.
2Career
He decided to quit his job and start his own business, giving himself a clean slate.
He decided to quit his job and start his own business, giving himself a clean slate.
3Sports
The team had a terrible season last year, but now they have a new coach and a clean slate.
The team had a terrible season last year, but now they have a new coach and a clean slate.

Similar phrases to “Clean slate”:

Fresh start

A new beginning or a chance to start over

Example

After the bankruptcy, he was determined to make a fresh start.

Tabula rasa

A blank or clean slate, often used in a philosophical context

Example

The artist saw the empty canvas as a tabula rasa, ready to be filled with creativity.

New leaf

Turning over a new leaf, making a positive change in behavior or attitude

Example

After the therapy, he decided to turn over a new leaf and prioritize his mental health.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Clean slate” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Clean Slate" is unknown.

Is “Clean slate” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Clean Slate" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their desire for a fresh start or to describe situations where a new beginning is possible.

What tone does “Clean slate” have?

"Clean Slate" conveys a tone of optimism and hope. It suggests the possibility of leaving behind past difficulties and starting anew.

Can “Clean slate” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Clean Slate" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of starting fresh. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She wanted a clean slate and decided to change careers.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time for a clean slate!' to imply the desire for a fresh start.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

blank slate
fresh start
new beginning
tabula rasa
new leaf

Antonyms

baggage
past mistakes
old habits
unresolved issues
negative history