Clear the air

Definitions

• resolve a conflict or misunderstanding
  To openly discuss and clarify any issues or disagreements in order to improve understanding and move forward in a positive direction

• get rid of tension or unease
  To ease any tension or awkwardness in a situation by addressing and resolving any underlying issues or concerns

• make things more clear or understandable
  To provide clarification and understanding on a particular topic or issue, often after confusion or misunderstanding has occurred

Examples of Clear the air

• After the argument, we decided to clear the air and talk things out.

  This idiom is used when two people have had a disagreement or argument and want to resolve any misunderstandings or tension between them. It means to remove any negative or uncomfortable feelings that may be lingering in the air between them.

• The meeting started off tense, but we were able to clear the air and come to a mutual understanding.

  This idiom can also be used in a professional setting to describe resolving a disagreement or conflict between colleagues or business partners. It means to remove any negative or uncomfortable feelings that may be affecting the productivity or relationships in the workplace.

• After the breakup, we decided to clear the air and remain friends.

  This idiom can also be used in a personal relationship context to describe resolving any negative feelings or misunderstandings between former partners. It means to remove any negative or uncomfortable feelings that may be affecting the ability to maintain a positive relationship.

• The air was thick with tension during the negotiation, but we were able to clear the air and come to a successful agreement.

  This idiom can also be used in a negotiation or mediation context to describe resolving any negative feelings or misunderstandings between parties. It means to remove any negative or uncomfortable feelings that may be affecting the ability to reach a successful outcome.

• The team meeting was productive once we were able to clear the air and address any concerns.

  This idiom can also be used in a team or group setting to describe resolving any negative feelings or misunderstandings between team members. It means to remove any negative or uncomfortable feelings that may be affecting the ability to work together effectively.

Conclusion

The idiom "clear the air" is commonly used to refer to the act of resolving conflict or tension in a situation. It can also be used to describe the process of clarifying and understanding a topic or issue. This phrase emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication in order to improve understanding and move forward in a positive direction.

Origin of "Clear the air"

The origin of this idiom is believed to come from the idea of clearing the air after a storm. Just as the air can become heavy and tense during a storm, relationships and situations can become strained and uneasy. The act of clearing the air is seen as a way to restore calm and clarity.

This phrase has also been used in a literal sense, such as clearing a room of smoke or other pollutants. This action can also be seen as a way to restore a sense of freshness and clarity. Over time, the phrase has evolved to also encompass the idea of clearing up misunderstandings and resolving conflicts in order to improve relationships and understanding.