clear the decks

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The EIA, Abbey declared, “must clear the decks of unfinished projects,” “recruit and retain the best talent” and “develop the most powerful analytical capabilities.”

From Salon • May 6, 2025

UBS analysts said costs would be a focus for Deutsche's fourth-quarter earnings, noting that the bank has said it wants to "clear the decks of transformation charges and other costs" this year.

From Reuters • Jan. 24, 2022

These are two of the selling points of the much-celebrated Rangnick as United clear the decks for the German to assume control.

From BBC • Nov. 28, 2021

Tottenham would like to clear the decks, too, but it has been unable to find a buyer for Serge Aurier, Moussa Sissoko or Harry Winks.

From New York Times • Aug. 7, 2021

It would have puzzled them to clear the decks like that.

From Middy and Ensign by Rowlandson, G. D.