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 man who ran up fines of more than £30,000 by dodging train fares has been given a "clean slate".

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"There is a degree of responsibility from my side in the sprint and we are starting this weekend within a clean slate for both of us, just going out and going racing," said Piastri.

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But within days of him taking office, anger at what protesters call the "political class" has spread with thousands taking to the streets to demand "a clean slate".

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A clean slate makes the next round easier.

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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.”

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Related Words

• fresh start www.thesaurus.com