clean slate

1. A new start; especially to make a new start by clearing the record. This phrase comes from the use of chalk and slates in classrooms in the past. By wiping the slate clean, a student could remove any evidence of a mistake.

Idioms and Phrases

A fresh start; another chance after wiping out old offenses or debts. This idiom often appears as wipe the slate clean. For example, Henry's boss assured him that the matter was finished and he could start with a clean slate, or He wished he could wipe the slate clean, but it was too late to salvage the relationship. This expression alludes to the slate boards on which school work or tavern bills were recorded in easily wiped-off chalk. Since 1850 or so the term has been used figuratively, and it has long outlived the practice of writing on slate.

Example Sentences

A clean slate makes the next round easier.

From Salon

Said Adams: “For a new player coming to a new team like this it’s just a clean slate. You can’t really ask for much more than that.”

From Los Angeles Times

It is a clean slate where you can build the family tree.

From Los Angeles Times

“We’re definitely better ... but it’s a clean slate,” Cook said after tossing six touchdown passes against host Long Beach Poly in a scrimmage Thursday — her first competitive game since November.

From Los Angeles Times

“Now there’s a clean slate, so the neighborhood we build next will be more fire-resilient.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• fresh start www.thesaurus.com