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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use “clean house” for a room, a system, or an organization—and choose a fair tone.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Clean house” can mean clean and organize a physical space, or remove unwanted practices and problems from an organization. Related expressions include “straighten up,” “clean up your act,” “slack off,” and “get the axe.”
Cultural note: In a workplace or political context, “clean house” can imply sweeping changes or firing people. It may sound severe, so be specific about whether you mean decluttering, improving a process, or changing staff.
Keep exploringA phrase about tidying a room can also describe major changes to an organization. Learn how context changes the meaning.
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 changes to practices, policies, or an organization.
Meaning
Tidy a physical space, or remove unwanted practices or people from an organization.
Tone & use
Meaning depends on context. In business or politics it can mean a significant internal overhaul and may include dismissing employees.
Example
“The new director cleaned house by replacing outdated procedures before hiring more staff.”
Meaning
Lose a job or be removed from a role.
Tone & use
Informal and often blunt. Use “be laid off” or “be dismissed” for a more neutral tone.
Example
“Several roles got the axe when the company reorganized.”
Recognize direct warnings and workplace language.
Meaning
Make a place neater, or improve one’s behavior.
Tone & use
With a person as the subject, it can be a firm instruction to stop behaving badly. With a room, it means tidy it.
Example
“The coach told the team to straighten up and arrive on time.”
Meaning
Stop behaving badly or carelessly and improve your conduct.
Tone & use
A direct warning that can sound critical or parental. Use it carefully in a professional conversation.
Example
“After missing two safety checks, the contractor was told to clean up his act.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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