clean slate

Cultural  

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.

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clean slate Idioms  

1. 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.

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Example Sentences

The union recently produced audits going back to 2020, and the records show that its finances haven’t always received a clean slate by its official independent auditor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 1, 2026

Skipper Stokes said they were starting with a clean slate, despite their miserable record in Australia.

From Barron's • Nov. 19, 2025

"This is a clean slate - pay for each one. If you cannot afford it, don't get on the train," Judge Smith warned Tooley.

From BBC • Oct. 27, 2025

A clean slate makes the next round easier.

From Salon • Sep. 9, 2025

Primogeniture is also the clean slate of the oldest making the past out of nothing but faint whispers, presences, and tones.

From "How the García Girls Lost Their Accents" by Julia Alvarez

Related Words

• fresh start