clean it thoroughly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clean it thoroughly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when giving instructions or advice about cleaning something in a detailed and careful manner. Example: "Before you start painting, make sure to clean it thoroughly to ensure the paint adheres properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Don't be alarmed if you bleed a little bit after it comes out, especially if this is your first time, but be sure to clean it thoroughly if this happens (more details on cleaning below).. Clean your nose with an antibacterial solution.

WikiHow

Clean it thoroughly after packing in order to receive your security or cleaning deposit back.

WikiHow

Clean it thoroughly and dampen the area.

The New York Times

If you buy a good brush, never let it dry out while loaded with paint, and clean it thoroughly at day's end.

The New York Times

Since the silverfish probably entered the house through the basement, clean it thoroughly, tossing out cardboard boxes and addressing any dampness problems.

The New York Times - Travel

Just clean it thoroughly with hot soapy water first.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"He opens the wound completely, cleans it thoroughly and closes it so it can heal," she wrote to a friend.

The New Yorker

Clean it out thoroughly and dry it completely.

WikiHow

You may also pour a little bit of peroxide inside the hoof area to clean it out thoroughly.

WikiHow

Gently dab at the ink to get as much of it up as possible before you try and use something to clean it more thoroughly.

WikiHow

Remove the hair catcher or filter from an affected shower drain and clean it out thoroughly, removing all the hair tangled inside it.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to clean something, specify the cleaning agents or tools needed to achieve a truly thorough result. For example: "Clean it thoroughly with soap and hot water."

Common error

Ensure that when you instruct someone to "clean it thoroughly", you emphasize checking and cleaning areas that are often missed, such as corners, crevices, and undersides. These spots tend to accumulate dirt and can undermine the overall cleanliness if neglected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clean it thoroughly" functions as an instructional directive, primarily used to emphasize the need for a comprehensive cleaning process. This is supported by Ludwig, which indicates it is a correct and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

55%

News & Media

31%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clean it thoroughly" is a widely used and grammatically sound directive that emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive cleaning process. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and usability in English. Predominantly found in Wiki and News & Media sources, the phrase serves to instruct and guide, ensuring that cleaning is not just performed, but executed with detail and exhaustiveness. While alternatives like ""clean it meticulously"" and ""clean it comprehensively"" offer nuanced variations, the core message remains consistent: thoroughness is key. Remember to specify cleaning agents and focus on often-missed areas to achieve optimal results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clean it meticulously

Replaces "thoroughly" with "meticulously", emphasizing precision and attention to detail in the cleaning process.

clean it comprehensively

Substitutes "thoroughly" with "comprehensively", highlighting the completeness and all-encompassing nature of the cleaning.

give it a thorough cleaning

Restructures the sentence to focus on the act of "giving" a cleaning, slightly changing the emphasis while maintaining the core meaning.

clean it scrupulously

Replaces "thoroughly" with "scrupulously", suggesting a very careful and conscientious cleaning.

clean it exhaustively

Uses "exhaustively" in place of "thoroughly", emphasizing that the cleaning covers every possible aspect.

clean it completely

Replaces "thoroughly" with "completely", focusing on the finished state of being entirely clean.

clean it carefully

Replaces "thoroughly" with "carefully", highlighting caution and attention during the cleaning process.

clean it from top to bottom

Offers a more descriptive alternative, indicating a comprehensive cleaning of all parts.

ensure it is spotlessly clean

Shifts the focus to the end result of being "spotlessly clean", implying a high standard of cleanliness.

clean it well

A simpler, more direct alternative to "clean it thoroughly", suitable for informal contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "clean it thoroughly" in a sentence?

You can use "clean it thoroughly" in sentences like: "After each use, "clean it thoroughly" to prevent bacteria growth" or "Before storing it, "clean it thoroughly" and let it dry completely".

What does "clean it thoroughly" mean?

"Clean it thoroughly" means to clean something completely and carefully, ensuring that all dirt, grime, or residue is removed. It emphasizes the importance of a detailed and comprehensive cleaning process.

Which is correct, "clean it thoroughly" or "clean it good"?

"Clean it thoroughly" is grammatically correct and standard English. "Clean it good" is informal and not recommended for formal writing. Use alternatives like "clean it well" in casual contexts.

What can I say instead of "clean it thoroughly"?

You can use alternatives such as "clean it meticulously", "clean it comprehensively", or "give it a thorough cleaning" depending on the context.