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

See Examples For:

clear the decks

A mayor can’t magically clear the decks without help from federal, state and county allies, and from strong partnerships on the City Council.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 7, 2026

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

A barrage of major central bank decisions and a critical U.S. consumer price inflation reading this week likely clear the decks in what has been an "annus horribilis" for world markets.

From Reuters ● Dec. 12, 2022

"Yes; we had now better clear the decks, and pipe to supper."

From The World of Waters A Peaceful Progress o'er the Unpathed Sea by Mrs. David Osborne

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