wipe the slate clean
Erase past mistakes
To wipe the slate clean is to start fresh, erasing past mistakes, debts, or grievances.
The image comes from writing slates that could be wiped blank for reuse.
After the bankruptcy, he wanted to wipe the slate clean and rebuild.
The phrase implies forgiveness or a deliberate decision to disregard history: Let's wipe the slate clean and move forward.
- bury the hatchetEnd hostilities formally
- let bygones be bygonesRelease past resentments mutually
- forgive and forgetAbsolve and dismiss resentment
- water under the bridgePast matters no longer relevant
- clear the airDispel tension through discussion
turn over a new leaf · turn the page · expunging · erase · wipe out · do-over · forgiveness · fresh start · start fresh · acquittal · new beginning · second chance · absolution · amnesty · exoneration · tabula rasa · reset · redemption
wipe the slate cleanhold a grudge
Maintain lasting resentment
bear a grudge · keep score · rake over old coals · hold accountable
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