clear the air

VERB

clear up

Synonyms

WEAK

clarify decipher define elucidate explain interpret make clear make plain shed light on show simplify solve spell out

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has spoken to Trump to try to clear the air over his earlier criticism of the war, according to a German official.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

Thomas Tuchel says Ben White must "clear the air" with his England team-mates after returning to the squad for the first time in four years.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Engelbert and Collier were supposed to have a meeting to clear the air.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 8, 2025

They clear the air and rekindle their spark during a “Before Sunrise”-esque day together.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 18, 2025

Luna sent rains washing down the Protectorate and the wood and the ruined mountain, which helped to clear the air a little.

From "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill