clear the decks

Idioms  

1. Prepare for action, as in I've finished all these memos and cleared the decks for your project, or Clear the decks—here comes the coach. This expression originated in naval warfare, when it described preparing for battle by removing or fastening down all loose objects on the ship's decks. [Second half of 1800s]

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Example Sentences

The EIA, Abbey declared, “must clear the decks of unfinished projects,” “recruit and retain the best talent” and “develop the most powerful analytical capabilities.”

From Salon • May 6, 2025

Mr Grigson was urged to "clear the decks" at MGN newspapers, it was claimed.

From BBC • May 24, 2023

It’s time to clear the decks of a few questions I’ve received recently, but first I want to share some alarming new information about melatonin gummies.

From Seattle Times • May 15, 2023

UBS analysts said costs would be a focus for Deutsche's fourth-quarter earnings, noting that the bank has said it wants to "clear the decks of transformation charges and other costs" this year.

From Reuters • Jan. 24, 2022

"Young ladies, better late than never, you know—let's have dancing now; clear the decks for action."

From Tales and Novels — Volume 09 by Edgeworth, Maria