clear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is understandable or free from ambiguity. Example: "The instructions were clear, making it easy for everyone to follow the steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it is no less shocking to consider that, far from being neutral as was claimed at the time, it is clear that the government took a deliberately calculated political approach guided by a complete hostility to the coalfield communities.

The Guardian

If they are ruling out these extreme cuts for the most disabled and carers, then it is clear they will be hitting the tax credits, and support for children, for millions of working families".

The Guardian

That is clear.

The New York Times

The message was clear.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not clear.

The New York Times

It is essentially clear that the four more liberal members of the Court will vote in favor of the mandate.

The New York Times

"I took this action because I want to make it perfectly clear: I was born in America and I am a proud American citizen.

The New York Times

But one thing is clear.

The New York Times

Let us be clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

One thing is very clear.

The Guardian

Another former staff member said: "The block system should have been clear before another craft is able to enter that section of the ride.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear" to convey transparency and honesty, especially in professional or formal communication.

Common error

Avoid using "clear" when a more specific adjective would provide greater clarity. For instance, instead of saying 'a clear understanding', specify what makes the understanding clear (e.g., 'a comprehensive understanding').

Linguistic Context

The word "clear" functions primarily as an adjective, describing a state or quality. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, as evidenced by numerous examples. It can also function as a verb, indicating the act of removing obstacles or ambiguity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "clear" is a versatile term used to convey understanding, transparency, or the absence of obstructions. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates it functions primarily as an adjective or verb, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts including news, business, and general communication. Common alternatives include "obvious", "evident", and "unambiguous", depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. While generally correct, overusing "clear" in vague contexts should be avoided; specificity enhances clarity even further.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obvious

Indicates something easily perceived or understood, focusing on visibility and understanding.

evident

Stresses the visibility and obviousness of something, often implying proof or demonstration.

unambiguous

Highlights the lack of confusion or doubt, focusing on precision and directness.

lucid

Emphasizes clarity of expression or thought, making something easy to understand.

distinct

Focuses on the sharp and well-defined nature of something, setting it apart from others.

transparent

Suggests openness and honesty, allowing for easy understanding and visibility.

plain

Implies simplicity and lack of complication, making something easy to see or understand.

apparent

Indicates that something is easily seen or understood, often without needing further explanation.

understandable

Focuses on the ease with which something can be grasped or comprehended.

well-defined

Emphasizes the precision and clarity of boundaries or characteristics, leaving no room for ambiguity.

FAQs

How can I use "clear" in a sentence?

You can use "clear" to describe something easily understood, like "The instructions were clear". It can also mean free from obstruction, such as "The road is clear for travel".

What are some alternatives to the word "clear"?

Depending on the context, you can use "obvious", "evident", or "unambiguous" as alternatives to "clear".

Is it better to say "make it clear" or "clarify"?

Both "make it clear" and "clarify" are correct. "Make it clear" emphasizes directness, while "clarify" suggests providing additional information to remove confusion.

What is the difference between "clear" and "obvious"?

"Clear" generally refers to something easily understood, whereas "obvious" implies something easily noticed or recognized without needing explanation.