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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use a common cleanliness expression and explore a few other meanings tied to “clean.”
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Clean as a whistle” describes something very clean, especially a home, office, or vehicle. The story also uses “clean” in expressions about a clear record or finishing something cleanly, showing how one adjective shifts across contexts.
Cultural note: Calling someone “clean” can be ambiguous and may carry moral or personal judgment. Be specific: describe a clean room, a clean record, or a clean finish rather than labeling a person.
Keep exploring“Clean” can describe a physical space, a fair result, or a record. Practise using enough context to make the intended meaning clear.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a place or object that has been cleaned thoroughly.
Meaning
Completely clean or spotless.
Tone & use
Common in American English for a room, office, car, or object. “As” is optional in some sentence patterns.
Example
“After the spring cleaning, the windows were clean as a whistle.”
Talk about a record without violations or wrongdoing.
Meaning
A record with no violations, offenses, or other negative marks.
Tone & use
The area matters: it can refer to driving, work, or another formal history.
Example
“The driver had a clean record for more than a decade.”
Use “clean” for a clear win or an uncomplicated finish.
Meaning
A clear separation from a previous situation, relationship, or habit.
Tone & use
Often used when someone wants to move on without remaining ties.
Example
“After finishing the project, the team made a clean break and reassigned the equipment.”
Meaning
A clear victory without controversy or rule-breaking.
Tone & use
Often used in sports or competition; “clean” emphasizes fairness or clarity.
Example
“The debate team earned a clean win after presenting strong evidence.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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