sweep away
The phrase "sweep away" can describe both physical removal and strong emotional impact, often implying thoroughness or intensity.
Definition
B2General
(common)To remove or eliminate something completely, often suddenly or forcefully.
Example
- The storm swept away all the debris from the streets.
- The new policy aims to sweep away outdated regulations.
B2Emotional
(idiomatic)To overwhelm someone emotionally or mentally, often in a positive or intense manner.
Example
- She was swept away by his heartfelt confession.
- The beauty of the landscape swept him away.
C1Destructive
(idiomatic)To completely destroy or annihilate something.
Example
- The floodwaters swept away entire villages.
- The invading army swept away all resistance.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "sweep away":
sweep asidesweep outsweep upwash awaywhisk awayclean sweepclear awayblow awaywipe outcarry awaysweep someone off their feetwave awaysweep the boardwipe upbrush asidemake awayclear outdo away withwhisk offmake away withclean outburn awaywipe offbroom upwash outdrive awaytake awayclean housebeat the dustwash overdrive outblast awayflush outscrub outcarry offwalk away withmop upclean downclean upreverse sweepwipe the floor with someonebrush offdraw awaybat awaywash downclear the deckscart awayswept pathcast awaybrush outtear awaybrush downblow out of the waterswept wingblow downbear offwalk off withmow down