CLEAR

Definition of CLEAR

CLEAR Verb and Adjective

Clear can function as a verb, adjective, adverb, and noun, depending on the context. As a verb, it means to remove obstructions, make something free of unwanted elements, or gain approval or permission. As an adjective, it describes something that is easy to understand, free from obstruction, transparent, or unambiguous. As an adverb, it means completely or entirely. Less commonly, as a noun, it can refer to a clear space or a clearance.

CLEAR as an adjective

As an adjective, clear refers to something that is free from obstructions, confusion, or ambiguity. It can describe an object, idea, or situation that is easily perceived, understood, or distinguished. In its verb form, clear refers to the action of removing obstacles or making something transparent or understandable.

Clear as Transparent or Unobstructed: One of the primary meanings of clear is the state of being transparent or free from obstructions. For example, clear water is water that is free from particles, dirt, or discoloration, allowing one to see through it. In a broader sense, clear can describe skies that are free of clouds or weather conditions that allow for maximum visibility. Similarly, clear spaces are those free from clutter or physical barriers, providing unimpeded movement or vision. This sense of clarity often evokes the idea of simplicity and openness, where nothing hinders perception.

Clear in Communication and Understanding: In terms of communication, clear refers to the quality of being easily understood or free of confusion. A clear explanation is one that uses simple language and logical structure, making it easy for the listener or reader to grasp the intended message. Similarly, clear speech or writing is concise, without unnecessary jargon or ambiguity. The concept of clarity in communication is essential in both professional and personal contexts, as it ensures that ideas are conveyed effectively without misunderstanding or misinterpretation.

Clear as Free from Obstruction or Hindrance: Another important meaning of clear refers to the removal of obstructions or obstacles. For instance, one might clear a path or clear a driveway, meaning that obstacles are removed to allow free movement. In this sense, clear can also refer to the act of removing things that are blocking a process or decision-making. For example, in legal or organizational contexts, when something is described as clear, it often means that all necessary approvals or issues have been resolved, making the path forward open and unobstructed.

Clear in Contexts of Weather and Environment: In meteorology, clear describes weather conditions that involve no clouds, fog, or other forms of precipitation. A clear day is one where the sky is mostly or entirely cloud-free, allowing for optimal visibility. In addition to its use in describing the atmosphere, clear can also refer to natural environments that are unobstructed by fog, smoke, or haze. Clear conditions are often associated with calm weather, where no elements are distorting the landscape or visibility.

Clear as Clearness or Absence of Confusion: In a more figurative sense, clear refers to the absence of confusion, obscurity, or complexity. For example, a clear decision is one that is made without hesitation, ambiguity, or uncertainty. A clear understanding of a topic means that the person comprehending it has no confusion or misunderstanding. This can apply to both physical objects, such as a clear glass, and abstract concepts, such as clear thinking or clear reasoning, where ideas are logically structured and easily understood.

Clear in Legal or Procedural Contexts: In legal, business, or procedural contexts, clear often refers to something that is unambiguous and unproblematic. For instance, a clear title in real estate means that the ownership of a property is free of disputes or claims. Similarly, a clear record indicates that there are no legal issues or past offenses associated with a person. When something is described as clear in these contexts, it means that there are no hidden factors, uncertainties, or complexities that could complicate decisions or actions.

Clear in Terms of Cleanliness or Purity: The adjective clear can also describe something that is free from impurities, blemishes, or imperfections. For instance, clear skin refers to skin that is free of pimples, blemishes, or marks. Similarly, clear air describes air that is clean, fresh, and free from pollutants. In these contexts, clear suggests a sense of purity, where nothing is disrupting the natural or desired state of the object or environment.

CLEAR as a verb

As a verb, clear refers to the act of removing obstructions, making something transparent, or preparing something for use. For example, one might clear a table by removing dishes, or clear the snow from a driveway. The verb can also refer to making an area safe or ready for something else, such as clearing land for construction. In legal terms, to clear someone’s name means to absolve them of any wrongdoing or accusation, thus removing any doubts or allegations.

Clear in the Context of Financial or Organizational Processes: In financial or organizational settings, to clear can mean to settle or finalize transactions. For example, clearing a payment refers to the process of completing a financial transaction, ensuring that funds are transferred and received without any issues. In banking, a clear check is one that has been processed and verified, ensuring there are no complications with the payment. Similarly, in accounting or organizational operations, clear can refer to the resolution of outstanding issues or the completion of a task without delay.

Clear in Technological or Digital Contexts: In technology, clear can refer to the process of resetting or erasing data. For example, clearing a browser cache means removing stored data or temporary files from a web browser. In mobile devices, clearing an app’s cache or data means deleting saved information to free up space or improve performance. In this context, clear involves a reset or refresh, ensuring that only necessary or up-to-date information remains accessible.

In conclusion, clear is a versatile word with multiple meanings that apply to both concrete and abstract contexts. Whether referring to transparency, simplicity, the absence of obstruction, or the removal of ambiguity, clear denotes clarity, openness, and accessibility. Whether used as an adjective to describe visible conditions, or as a verb to indicate action, the concept of being clear remains essential in numerous aspects of daily life—from communication and decision-making to technology and legal matters. By striving for clarity in communication and action, one can ensure better understanding, efficiency, and effectiveness in a variety of fields.

Examples of CLEAR in a sentence

CLEAR as an adjective in a sentence

• The sky was clear after the storm passed, with no clouds in sight.
• She gave a clear explanation of the complex concept.
• The water in the lake was so clear that you could see the fish swimming.
• His clear handwriting made the notes easy to read.
• The instructions were clear, leaving no room for confusion.
• After the meeting, her clear communication helped resolve any misunderstandings.
• The clear glass allowed the sunlight to shine through the windows.
• The path was clear, so they could continue their hike without obstruction.

CLEAR as a verb in a sentence

• He cleared the table after dinner.
• They cleared the road of debris following the storm.
• She cleared her throat before speaking to the audience.
• The air conditioner worked to clear the room of smoke.
• He cleared his schedule to attend the important meeting.
• The pilot was asked to clear the runway for the incoming plane.
• She cleared her desk before leaving the office for the day.
• The workers cleared the land to build new homes.

Origin of CLEAR

The term clear has a rich etymological history, evolving from its early origins to its broad modern usage.

Semantic Context: A clear object, condition, or concept refers to something that is free from obstructions, confusion, or ambiguity. It can describe something transparent, easy to understand, or unclouded in both literal and figurative senses.

• Etymological Roots: The word clear comes from the Old French cler (meaning “bright” or “clear”) and from the Latin clārus (meaning “bright,” “famous,” or “clear”). The Latin word clārus is related to the verb clamare, meaning “to cry out,” reflecting something that is loud, obvious, or easily perceived.
• Historical Development: Initially, clear was used primarily in the sense of brightness or transparency, both in physical and metaphorical contexts. By the 14th century, it was being used to describe clarity of thought or understanding. Over time, its usage expanded to include various contexts where something is free from obstruction, confusion, or ambiguity, both in physical and abstract senses.
• Cultural and Scientific Applications: In scientific contexts, clear is often used to describe transparency or lack of obstruction, such as in optics or environmental conditions. For example, “clear water” means water that is transparent and free from impurities. In communication and logic, clear refers to ideas or messages that are easily understood and unambiguous. In weather terminology, it denotes skies that are free of clouds.
• Current Usage: Today, clear is used in a variety of contexts, both literal and figurative. It can refer to physical transparency, like clear glass or water. It can also refer to mental clarity, as in “a clear mind,” or to straightforwardness, such as in clear instructions. Additionally, clear is often used to describe weather conditions, as in “the skies are clear,” and in everyday language to indicate that something is easily understandable or free from confusion.

The term clear has evolved from its literal meaning of brightness or transparency to encompass broader figurative uses that refer to clarity in thought, communication, and observation.