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clear out

A2 informal separable both
In simple words

To take everything out of a place to make it empty; or to get out of somewhere fast.

Literal meaning: To remove things from inside a space so it is clear (empty).

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To remove all unwanted items from a room, container, or space.

"I need to clear out the spare room before my parents come to stay."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To leave a place quickly, often because one is told to or a situation demands it.

"When the fire alarm went off, everyone cleared out of the building within minutes."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Very common in everyday British and American English. Used domestically (clear out a cupboard), commercially (a sale to clear out stock), and informally as a command to leave. 'Clearout' (noun) refers to a thorough session of removing unwanted things.

Commonly used with

cupboard wardrobe attic stock room drawer building

Forms

Base
clear out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
clears out
he/she/it
Past simple
cleared out
yesterday
Past participle
cleared out
have + pp
-ing form
clearing out
continuous

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