a clean chit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clean chit" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone has been cleared of blame or suspicion, often in a legal or investigative context. Example: "After a thorough investigation, the committee gave him a clean chit, confirming that he had no involvement in the scandal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

We are not yet ready to give ISI a clean chit," he said.

The Guardian

If he is guilty by connivance he should be punished, but investigations have given him a clean chit.

The New York Times

But the mullah said that his comments were misrepresented and that he had never given a "clean chit" to Mr. Modi.

The New York Times

He also claimed that the voters of Gujarat, by re-electing him frequently ever since, had given him a clean chit over the riots.

The Economist

"We are not yet ready to give ISI a clean chit," although he said the GOI was making no accusations, yet, of direct ISI involvement.

The Guardian

Mr. Patil, the minister involved, said he was innocent, telling journalists Wednesday "We will request the honorable speaker to conduct an investigation and we will come out with a clean chit".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

First, the Gujarat massacres have not safely been consigned to the past; whatever the claims of his supporters either in India or over here (such as the Labour MP Barry Gardiner who invited him to Britain last year), there has been no "clean chit" for Modi.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is "premature to talk of either clean chits or indictments," Mr. Ramachandran said.

The New York Times

The 'five cleans' are: a clean place; a clean surface; clean hands; clean cord and dressing; and a clean tie.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

A new carbon ink modified electrode was fabricated in this work by drop-casting of micro-litre quantity of the CB-Chit ink on a cleaned glassy carbon electrode (GCE) followed by air drying in room temperature for 10 ± 2 min.

Electrochimica Acta

They drop change in an orange self-service dispenser and get back a chit with a number.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clean chit" when you want to emphasize that someone has been thoroughly investigated and found to be free of any wrongdoing or suspicion. This phrase carries a strong connotation of official clearance.

Common error

Avoid using "a clean chit" if the situation only involves a superficial review or lacks a formal investigation. This phrase suggests a thorough and conclusive process, so it's inappropriate for minor or unsubstantiated matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clean chit" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "give a clean chit"). It signifies an official statement or outcome that clears someone of blame or suspicion. Ludwig's examples illustrate its common usage in contexts involving investigations and allegations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clean chit" is a noun phrase indicating that someone has been cleared of blame or suspicion, often following an investigation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in news and formal contexts. While "a clean chit" is appropriate in formal writing, you can use synonyms like "exoneration" or "acquittal" for a more elevated tone. Ensure that its use is reserved for situations involving a thorough process and conclusive outcome. Avoid using it for superficial matters. As Ludwig's examples illustrate, this phrase is frequently used by authoritative sources to communicate the findings of investigations and official statements regarding someone's innocence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exoneration

Focuses on the act of being officially cleared of blame.

acquittal

Specifically refers to being found not guilty in a court of law.

vindication

Emphasizes being proven right or justified after doubt.

clearance

Highlights the act of being officially permitted or approved.

official pardon

Refers to a formal release from punishment for a crime.

bill of exoneration

A formal declaration clearing someone of charges.

declaration of innocence

Explicitly states that someone is not guilty.

complete absolution

Indicates a full and unconditional forgiveness.

full discharge

Implies a complete release from obligation or responsibility.

certificate of blamelessness

A document confirming that someone is free from fault.

FAQs

How can I use "a clean chit" in a sentence?

You can use "a clean chit" to indicate that someone has been cleared of blame or suspicion, often after an investigation. For example, "The investigation gave the company "a clean chit" regarding the allegations."

What can I say instead of "a clean chit"?

You can use alternatives like "exoneration", "acquittal", or "vindication" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a clean chit" in formal writing?

Yes, "a clean chit" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing legal or investigative matters. It clearly conveys that someone has been officially cleared of wrongdoing. However, consider more formal synonyms like "exoneration" for a more elevated tone.

What's the difference between "a clean chit" and "a clear record"?

"A clean chit" implies that someone was under suspicion but has been cleared, while "a clear record" simply means that someone has no history of wrongdoing. "A clear record" suggests a lack of prior issues, while "a clean chit" indicates active investigation and subsequent clearance.