roads are clear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "roads are clear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that there are no obstacles or traffic on the roads, often in the context of travel or driving conditions. Example: "After the storm passed, the roads are clear, making it safe for us to drive home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Weather

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The roads are clear, and the Taliban no longer operate with impunity, he said.

The New York Times

Labor Day weekend is awesome because it's like the roads are clear".

The New York Times

"I work from home in the mornings and travel to work when the roads are clear," he said.

The New York Times

"Snow creates more of that wintry holiday atmosphere and puts shoppers more in the spirit -- after the roads are clear".

The New York Times

Metro stations have one-way systems, and people wait for crossings to change even when the roads are clear.

The Guardian

Late at night, when the roads are clear, it takes him half an hour or so to get to work.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Roads are cleared, lined by man-made hills of rubble.

The Economist

Many of the plow drivers live in town and have a personal stake in how well the roads are cleared.

The New York Times

But once the roads are cleared, the frustration can set in, fueled by long lines and the anticipation of unappreciated presents.

The New York Times

Now, though, the snow is melting, temps are rising and roads are clearing.

Huffington Post

"But now the roads are cleared, communication is starting to come back.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "roads are clear" to provide reassurance about travel conditions, especially after adverse weather or events. It's a concise way to communicate that routes are accessible and safe.

Common error

Avoid using "roads are clear" when it's unnecessary or doesn't add value. Ensure the statement is relevant to the situation and provides useful information. For example, don't say "roads are clear" when describing a normal day without any prior disruptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "roads are clear" functions primarily as a descriptive statement. It provides information about the condition of roads, indicating whether they are free from obstructions and safe for travel. This is supported by examples in Ludwig, where the phrase is used to convey the state of roads after weather events or other disruptions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "roads are clear" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe unobstructed travel routes. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to inform or reassure, often appearing in news and media contexts with a neutral tone. While widely used, it's important to ensure the statement is relevant and adds value to the conversation. Alternatives like "the roads are passable" or "traffic is flowing freely" can be used to vary your language while conveying a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the roads are passable

Replaces "clear" with "passable", indicating the roads can be traveled on.

the routes are unobstructed

Uses "routes" instead of "roads" and "unobstructed" to convey the absence of blockages.

roads are free of obstruction

More formal way of saying that no obstacles are on the roads.

traffic is flowing freely

Focuses on the movement of traffic rather than the state of the roads.

the way is open

A more general expression indicating that passage is available.

there are no road closures

Focuses on the absence of closures, implying the roads are open.

the highways are open

Specifies "highways" instead of "roads", indicating major routes are accessible.

the path is clear

A more figurative expression, suggesting a clear route forward.

driving conditions are good

Broadly describes favorable conditions for driving.

travel is unimpeded

A formal alternative, suggesting travel is not hindered.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "roads are clear"?

When someone says "roads are clear", it means that the routes are free from obstacles like traffic jams, accidents, or weather-related hazards, making travel safe and easy.

What can I say instead of "roads are clear"?

You can use alternatives like "the roads are passable", "traffic is flowing freely", or "the way is open" depending on the specific context you want to convey.

How do weather conditions affect whether the "roads are clear"?

Weather conditions like snow, ice, and heavy rain can significantly impact road conditions. After a storm, it's common to hear reports about whether the "roads are clear" indicating if they have been cleared of snow or other hazards.

Is it always safe to drive when the "roads are clear"?

While "roads are clear" suggests that there are no immediate obstructions, it's still important to exercise caution and drive responsibly. Other factors like driver fatigue, vehicle maintenance, and unexpected hazards can still pose risks, even if the "roads are passable".