start with a clean slate
Reset and restart
To start with a clean slate is to begin fresh, without the burden of past mistakes, debts, or grievances.
The image comes from writing slates that could be wiped clean for reuse.
After the divorce, she moved across the country to start with a clean slate.
The phrase often implies forgiveness or a deliberate forgetting of what came before.
Radically change something existing
- overhaulComplete systematic repair
- transformationThorough change in form
- rebirthSpiritual or physical regeneration
- rejuvenateRestore youthful vigor
revitalize · reawaken · redesign · reconstruct · remake · reform · revamp · rework
Formal clearing of guilt
- amnestyGroup pardon from authorities
- clemencyMerciful treatment of offenders
- compassionConcern for others' distress
- exonerationOfficial clearing of blame
grace · mercy · pardoning · reconciliation · redemption · reprieve · acquittal · atonement
Potential client or opportunity
- potentialLatent capacity for development
- openingGap or start
- chanceLikelihood of occurrence
- breakthroughSudden important advance
doorway · gateway · avenue · possibility · springboard · launchpad · platform · new chapter
Untouched painting surface
- pristinePure and untouched
- unwrittenNot set down formally
- spotlessCompletely free of marks
- immaculateCompletely without blemish
clear · empty · bare · unblemished · untouched · unspoiled · unmarred · unsullied
Point of creation
- dawnDay's first glow
- outsetInitial point of something
- commencementAct of starting
- launchSet into motion
kickoff · debut · inauguration · initiation · threshold · groundwork · foundation · inception
reinvent
Radically change something existing
- overhaulComplete systematic repair
- transformationThorough change in form
- rebirthSpiritual or physical regeneration
rejuvenate · revitalize · reawaken · redesign · reconstruct · remake · reform · revamp · rework · regenerate
absolution
Formal clearing of guilt
- amnestyGroup pardon from authorities
- clemencyMerciful treatment of offenders
- compassionConcern for others' distress
exoneration · grace · mercy · pardoning · reconciliation · redemption · reprieve · acquittal · atonement · letting go
prospect
Potential client or opportunity
breakthrough · doorway · gateway · avenue · possibility · springboard · launchpad · platform · new chapter · new leaf
blank canvas
Untouched painting surface
immaculate · clear · empty · bare · unblemished · untouched · unspoiled · unmarred · unsullied · untainted
genesis
Point of creation
- dawnDay's first glow
- outsetInitial point of something
- commencementAct of starting
launch · kickoff · debut · inauguration · initiation · threshold · groundwork · foundation · inception · origin