clear the decks

USAGE SUMMARY

"clear the decks" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to prepare for something by getting rid of any unnecessary items or tasks standing in the way. For example, "Before launching the new project, we need to clear the decks and focus only on the tasks that are absolutely necessary."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We are ready to clear the decks on this thing".

The New York Times

Return to my hotel at 7 to clear the decks.

The Guardian - Music

He wanted, he said, "to clear the decks".

The New York Times - Arts

It took a long time to clear the decks.

The Guardian - Books

Several companies used the August 14th certification to clear the decks of previous mis-statements.

The Economist

"I felt it was time to clear the decks," he said.

The New York Times - Style

It took 21 minutes to clear the decks, so to speak.

The Guardian - Sport

What the managers did was to clear the decks for that team, to get people off the treadmill.

Harvard University

The $21 billion of mortgage-related charges just unveiled by the beleaguered bank doesn't quite clear the decks.

The New York Times

Harvey resigned from Parliament with the Tory hierarchy anxious to clear the decks before the 1959 general election.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is a possibility of a clear-the-decks charge, which would weaken the firm's capital base even more.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear the decks" when you want to convey a sense of decisive preparation for a significant undertaking, implying the removal of distractions and unnecessary burdens.

Common error

Avoid using "clear the decks" for minor tasks. It suggests a more comprehensive and strategic preparation than simply tidying up.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear the decks" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It's used to describe the act of removing obstacles or distractions in order to prepare for a specific task or event. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clear the decks" is a common and correct idiomatic expression that signifies preparing for an upcoming task or event by removing obstacles and distractions. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's frequently found in news and media, but also used in academia and business contexts, suggesting a broad applicability. To enhance your writing, consider using it when you want to convey a sense of readiness and focus. However, avoid using it for minor tasks, as it implies a more comprehensive strategic preparation. Semantically related phrases include "prepare the ground", "remove obstacles" and "streamline operations".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prepare the ground

Emphasizes setting the stage or making necessary preparations before an event or project.

set the stage

Focuses on creating a suitable environment or setting for an event or activity.

make preparations

Highlights the act of getting ready or arranging things in advance.

pave the way

Highlights the action of creating a path or making something easier for others.

cut through the red tape

Specifically addresses the removal of bureaucratic obstacles.

remove obstacles

Focuses on eliminating hindrances or challenges to facilitate progress.

make way

Similar to paving the way, but can also imply physically creating space.

streamline operations

Implies making processes more efficient and less complex.

tidy up

Refers to making a place or situation neat and organized.

get ready

A more general term for preparing or making oneself available.

FAQs

What does "clear the decks" mean?

The phrase "clear the decks" means to remove obstacles and prepare for action, typically before a significant event or task. It implies getting rid of anything unnecessary to ensure a smooth and focused approach.

How can I use "clear the decks" in a sentence?

You might say, "Before launching the marketing campaign, we need to "clear the decks" of all other projects" or "The company decided to "clear the decks" to focus on its core business".

What are some alternatives to "clear the decks"?

Alternatives include "prepare the ground", "remove obstacles", "streamline operations", or "make preparations", depending on the specific context.

Is "clear the decks" formal or informal?

While usable in a variety of situations, "clear the decks" tends to be more common in neutral to professional contexts like news reporting or business communication, rather than highly formal or informal settings. You might use it when communicating about work or strategic plans.