The idiom “in the clear” can mean proceeding unhindered or being blameless. It can be used literally, such as when someone is physically or emotionally unencumbered, or figuratively, such as when someone is cleared of ethical or legal guilt. The phrase is commonly used in journalism when discussing behavior that may be illegal.
The idiom “in the clear” means a couple of different but related things. People can be said to be “in the clear” when there is nothing to stop them from proceeding unhindered. The phrase is also very common when talking about being blameless.
The first usage is a bit more literal. Someone who is no longer encumbered with physical, emotional, or psychological trappings could use the expression. A concerned patient who has undergone a series of medical tests hopes that the doctor will walk into the room with a broad smile and announce, “Don’t worry, you’re good to go!” Someone less fortunate who has suffered a massive heart attack but recovered thanks to quick medical intervention is also safe, or out of harm’s way.
A divorcee who has been through months of heartache but is beginning to see how much better she is can be similarly described using this idiom. Likewise, a graduate student who has passed oral and written exams will experience distinct relief that only the thesis or dissertation remains to be done. With everything else out of the way, it’s easier to deal with.
A basketball player dodging a forest of flailing arms and leaping bodies will sprint onto the court to make a game-winning shot. An opportunity to use the idiom very literally might present itself for a climber who has broken clear of the tree line and is within sight of the mountain peak. That climber has almost reached the goal.
The second use brings the memory of ethical, moral or even legal guilt. When an office employee is accused of misconduct, that person will only breathe a sigh of relief when supervisors determine that he was not at fault and is now fine. Individuals who know they have done nothing wrong might tell anyone who will listen that the time will come when they will be cleared of guilt. Even something as simple as paying a fine or as painful as paying back taxes will bring the relief of clearing old accounts.
The expression “in the clear” is often used by journalists discussing behavior that may have crossed the line from wrong to illegal. A company accused of fraud must be investigated to determine if it is in the clearing or creek without a paddle. A politician accused of selling his vote will only be approved by close scrutiny.
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