come clean: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "come clean" is a phrase commonly used in the English language. It is often used to encourage someone to confess or reveal the truth about something. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the early 20th century.

One fact about the idiom "come clean" is that it has its roots in the imagery of washing or cleansing. The word "clean" is associated with purity and honesty, and by using this phrase, the speaker is implying that the truth will help to cleanse any deceit or wrongdoing.

Additionally, the idiom "come clean" is often used in situations where someone is suspected of deception or hiding something. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as personal relationships, business dealings, or even in legal settings. The phrase is used to encourage transparency and honesty in these situations.

Another interesting idiom related to "come clean" is "make a clean breast". This phrase is used when someone admits or confesses to something. It has a similar meaning to "come clean" in that it emphasizes the importance of honesty and revealing the truth.

Furthermore, the idiom "come to light" is closely related to "come clean". When something comes to light, it means that it becomes known or revealed. This can be used in the context of secrets or hidden information being exposed, which aligns with the idea of "coming clean".

In addition to that, the idiom "come out" is also related to "come clean". When someone comes out, they are revealing something about themselves that was previously hidden or kept secret. This can pertain to personal preferences, identities, or even the truth about a specific situation.

It is worth mentioning that the idiom "come clean" is commonly used in informal spoken English, but it can also be found in written communication. Its usage can be seen in various forms of media, including literature, movies, and news articles.

The idiom "come clean" is often used in idiomatic expressions and collocations, such as "come clean about," "come clean on," or "come clean with." These variations imply that the person is expected to reveal or confess a specific piece of information in order to be considered truly honest or transparent.

The idiom "come clean" is an expression commonly used in the English language. It is rooted in the imagery of washing or cleansing, implying that revealing the truth will help to eliminate deceit or wrongdoing. This idiom is used in various contexts and can be found in both spoken and written English. By encouraging transparency and honesty, "come clean" serves as a reminder to reveal the truth and face the consequences of one's actions. When someone "makes a clean breast" or admits to something, when something "comes to light" and becomes known, or when someone "comes out" and reveals a previously hidden truth about themselves, they are embodying the spirit of "coming clean".