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

Overnight, smoke from the Santa Rosa Island and Sandy fires is expected to come onshore, settling over the coast with little wind to clear the air.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 8, 2025

Before school on Monday, Harvey opened Snapchat again to try and clear the air.

From BBC • Aug. 8, 2025

I waved my hand in front of my face, hoping to clear the air.

From "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys