Phrases & Expressions

Not taking illegal drugs or drinking alcohol.

• He has been clean and sober for five years.
• The program helps people stay clean and sober.

To remove all paint, rust, or other coatings from a metal surface.

• You must clean the metal to bare metal before painting.
• The old car was cleaned to bare metal for restoration.

To remove impurities or waste from a place or system by cleaning.

• We need to cleanse out the old pipes.
• The body tries to cleanse out harmful substances.

Outside cloud, so that the pilot can see outside the aircraft; used in visual flight rules.

• The pilot stayed clear of cloud and in sight of the ground.
• Under these rules, you must remain clear of cloud at all times.

Away from areas of bad weather such as storms or heavy cloud.

• The flight path is clear of weather.
• We are clear of weather for the rest of the journey.

To try to get promoted or become more successful in your job or life.

• She is determined to climb the ladder.
• He wants to climb the ladder quickly.

An event that almost happened, especially a dangerous one.

• That was a close call with the other car!
• We had a close call during the storm.

A structured approach to guide and support someone in developing specific skills or achieving goals.

• Her coach created a detailed coaching plan for her.
• The coaching plan includes regular meetings and exercises.

Used to tell a driver, pilot or boat to move forward.

• The marshaller signalled "come ahead" and the aircraft moved slowly forward.
• The controller told the pilot to come ahead.

To confess the truth about something, especially something wrong.

• He decided to come clean about his involvement.
• It's time to come clean and tell them what happened.