clear the decks

Idioms and Phrases

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]

Example Sentences

Asked about the Budget, Sir Keir said the economy barely grew under the Conservatives and that he wanted to "clear the decks" and "clear up the mess".

From BBC

In just a few months, Google has spent well over $1 billion to clear the decks for court fights that could prove far more damaging to the company and that could reshape the entire internet industry: two federal suits brought by the Department of Justice, targeting Google’s search engine and its advertising business.

From New York Times

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

From BBC

He claimed he told Mr Grigson to "clear the decks of all taint", after looking at MGN for a possible investment.

From BBC

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