wipe the slate clean
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Définition et Signification de "wipe the slate clean"

to wipe the slate clean
01

faire table rase

to forget about past disagreements or mistakes and start fresh
to [wipe] the slate clean definition and meaning
IdiomIdiom

What is the origin of the idiom "wipe the slate clean" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase comes from the practice of writing on a slate board with chalk, which could easily be wiped clean with a damp cloth. This made it a useful tool for teachers to use with students, as they could easily correct mistakes and start over. The metaphorical use of the phrase in regard to personal relationships or business dealings likely stems from the idea that, like a slate board, mistakes and offenses can be wiped away, allowing for a fresh start. The phrase has been in use since at least the mid-1800s and continues to be a common expression today.

example
Example
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He wiped the slate clean to start a new calculation.
Realizing the financial strain on families during the pandemic, the bank announced a plan to wipe the slate clean for certain mortgage holders, alleviating their debt obligations temporarily.
I want to wipe the slate clean and start over with you.
02

to forgive and forget someone's debt, enabling them to start fresh without any financial obligations

to [wipe] the slate clean definition and meaning
example
Example
click on words
Realizing the financial strain on families during the pandemic, the bank announced a plan to wipe the slate clean for certain mortgage holders, alleviating their debt obligations temporarily.
I want to wipe the slate clean and start over with you.
The generous benefactor decided to wipe the slate clean for struggling students by paying off their outstanding school debts.
example
Exemple
He wiped the slate clean to start a new calculation.
Realizing the financial strain on families during the pandemic, the bank announced a plan to wipe the slate clean for certain mortgage holders, alleviating their debt obligations temporarily.
I want to wipe the slate clean and start over with you.
The generous benefactor decided to wipe the slate clean for struggling students by paying off their outstanding school debts.
The government implemented a program to help small businesses by wiping the slate clean of their outstanding tax debts, providing them with a fresh start.
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