clean through

USAGE SUMMARY

"clean through" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a thoroughness of doing something, typically in a statement or command. For example, "Completely clean through the kitchen before you leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It has passed clean through me'.

The Guardian - Books

He would have been clean through.

The Guardian

6.27pm GMT 71 min: Adebayor is clean through!

The Guardian - Sport

Billy Vunipola went clean through him at one point.

The Guardian - Sport

There is no way Anthony Stokes would go down when clean through on goal.

The Guardian - Sport

Bent was clean through when his shot was smothered by Swiss goalkeeper Diego Benaglio.

Independent

As Daley explains: "You go clean through, with a noise like a quick rip of paper".

Independent

Almost immediately, Chris Eagles was brought back for a marginal offside when clean through.

Independent

This kid stayed clean through all the transitions with all the coaches.

The New York Times

I really just try to focus on a clean through line of a life.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Walters not sent off for pulling back clean-through Baines.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clean through" in sports contexts, ensure it accurately describes an unobstructed path to the goal or finish line. For example: "The striker was "clean through" and scored easily."

Common error

Avoid using "clean through" metaphorically when a more appropriate adjective would better convey the intended meaning. For instance, instead of "The idea went "clean through" the committee", consider "The idea was easily approved by the committee".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clean through" primarily functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. It describes a complete and unobstructed passage or penetration, as Ludwig confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sport

35%

General

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clean through" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to describe actions that are performed completely and without obstruction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and sports contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more precise language in formal or academic settings. When writing, be sure to apply it accurately to physical or metaphorical scenarios where a complete and unimpeded passage is intended. Common errors include misapplication in non-physical contexts. Consider alternatives like "completely through" or "straight through" for greater nuance. With a very common frequency and support from authoritative sources like The Guardian and BBC, mastering the use of "clean through" enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely through

Emphasizes totality or the extent of the action or process.

fully through

Similar to completely through, stressing the level of completion.

pass through completely

Formally highlights the action of going fully from one side to the other.

straight through

Highlights the directness and lack of obstruction in the movement or process.

right through

Similar to straight through, but may imply a faster or more forceful action.

all the way through

Emphasizes the continuous nature of the action from beginning to end.

unimpeded passage

Focuses on the absence of obstacles or hindrances.

clear passage

Similar to unimpeded passage, but emphasizes clarity and ease.

without obstruction

Highlights the lack of impediment, often in a physical sense.

penetrate entirely

Describes forceful entry and complete traversal.

FAQs

How is "clean through" used in sports reporting?

In sports reporting, "clean through" describes a player's unobstructed path to the goal or finish line, often indicating a significant scoring opportunity or advantage, as in, "The forward was "clean through" on goal".

What does "clean through" mean in a physical context?

In a physical context, "clean through" means that something has passed completely and unimpeded from one side to another, often involving force or precision. For instance, "The arrow went "clean through" the target".

Is "completely through" a good substitute for "clean through"?

Yes, "completely through" can be a good substitute for "clean through", especially when emphasizing the thoroughness or extent of an action, process, or passage. For example, "The project went "completely through" all the stages" can replace, "The project went "clean through" all the stages".

In what situations is it best to avoid using "clean through"?

Avoid using "clean through" in formal or academic writing where a more precise or descriptive phrase might be more appropriate. Also, be cautious when using it metaphorically in non-physical contexts where the meaning might not be clear.