Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

to clear the air

idiom

/tə klɪər ði ɛr/

Definition

To resolve misunderstandings or conflicts, typically by communicating openly about the issue at hand.

Examples

After their argument, they decided it was time to clear the air and talk about their feelings.
To clear the air, the manager called for a team meeting to discuss the recent changes.
She felt much better after they cleared the air about their misunderstandings.

Meaning

The phrase ‘to clear the air’ refers to the act of addressing and discussing a situation or a problem that has caused tension or confusion, in order to remove negativity and restore clarity and harmony.