clear the decks
Originating from naval practices, 'clear the decks' is now commonly used to describe preparation by removing obstacles or distractions.
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Definition
B2General
(figurative, informal)To remove obstacles or distractions to focus on an important task.
Example
- Before starting the new project, we need to clear the decks of any existing issues.
B2General
(figurative, informal)To prepare for a new activity by getting rid of unnecessary tasks or items.
Example
- She decided to clear the decks before the big meeting by finishing all her other work.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "clear the decks":
clear outclear awayclean houseclean outall hands on deckclear upclean downclean slateclean sweepsweep the boardsweep outsquare awayclean upclear the neighborhoodwipe outclear offtrim one's sailssweep asideall clearsweep awayon deckplay with a full deckin the clearstrike sailput one's house in orderzero outscrub out