clear the air

Idioms  

1. Eliminate confusion, dispel controversy or emotional tension, as in His letter has cleared the air; we now know where he stands. This idiom alludes to an atmosphere cleared of sultriness by a storm. [Late 1800s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

clear the air

Allow us to clear the air: Canada has reported about 3,500 wildfires so far this year, which is in line with recent historical averages.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has spoken to Trump to try to clear the air over his earlier criticism of the war, according to a German official.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 25, 2026

They clear the air and rekindle their spark during a “Before Sunrise”-esque day together.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 18, 2025

Before school on Monday, Harvey opened Snapchat again to try and clear the air.

From BBC ● Aug. 8, 2025

I waved my hand in front of my face, hoping to clear the air.

From "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys