a clean slate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clean slate" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a fresh start or a new beginning, often after a period of difficulty or mistakes. Example: "After the difficult year we had, we are ready to start anew with a clean slate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a clean slate.

The Guardian - Books

He's a clean slate".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A clean slate.

The Washington Post

He added, "It's a clean slate".

The New York Times - Sports

It means a clean slate.

The New York Times

Bradley can start with a clean slate.

The New York Times

"You start with a clean slate".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a clean slate," Fitzgerald said.

The New York Times

A new year is a clean slate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In Iran talks, a clean slate.

Harvard University

Radical invention requires a clean slate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clean slate" when you want to emphasize a complete restart, free from past influences or mistakes. It's suitable for describing new projects, relationships, or personal endeavors.

Common error

Avoid using "a clean slate" to suggest that past experiences should be entirely ignored. It signifies a fresh start, but learning from past mistakes remains crucial for future success.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a clean slate" is as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its versatility in different sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clean slate" is a widely used noun phrase that signifies a fresh start, renewal, or opportunity. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news articles, academic papers, and business communications, reflecting its neutral register and broad applicability. The phrase conveys optimism and hope for new beginnings and is often used to encourage a positive outlook after overcoming challenges. While it's important to use "a clean slate" to suggest a fresh beginning, do not forget that past mistakes are essential for future success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Fresh start

Focuses on the new beginning aspect, without necessarily implying a removal of past issues.

New beginning

Highlights the commencement of something new, often after a significant change or event.

Wipe the slate clean

An action-oriented phrase that suggests actively erasing past mistakes or problems.

Blank canvas

Emphasizes the potential for creation and freedom from prior constraints.

Begin anew

Emphasizes the act of starting again, often with renewed vigor or purpose.

Start from scratch

Implies building something anew, often after a failure or setback.

Tabula rasa

A more formal, philosophical term for a mind or situation free from preconceived ideas or past influences.

Clean break

Implies a decisive separation from the past, often in relationships or situations.

Second chance

Highlights the opportunity to rectify past errors or improve one's situation.

Turn over a new leaf

Suggests making a fresh start by changing one's behavior or habits.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clean slate" to describe starting fresh after a mistake, like: "After the company restructure, we're approaching the new quarter with "a clean slate"." or to describe a new relationship where you want to put the past behind you.

What's a similar phrase to "a clean slate"?

Alternatives to "a clean slate" include "fresh start", "new beginning", or "start from scratch", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Is it appropriate to use "a clean slate" in a formal setting?

Yes, "a clean slate" is appropriate in formal settings, especially when discussing restructuring, new initiatives, or changes in direction. It conveys a sense of optimism and opportunity.

What is the difference between "a clean slate" and "turning over a new leaf"?

"A clean slate" implies starting without past baggage or mistakes affecting the present, while "turning over a new leaf" specifically suggests changing one's behavior or habits for the better.