How to Pronounce "clear the decks"
expression
ˈkɫɪɹ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈdɛks
KLEER thuh/ thee DEKS
klˈiə/ /ðə, ði/ /dˈɛks
klee-UH thuh/ thee DEKS
Definition
To remove obstacles or finish existing tasks so you are ready to start something new or important. Originally from ship language, it means to get everything out of the way to focus on the next job.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈkɫɪɹ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈdɛks
British English
klˈiə/ /ðə, ði/ /dˈɛks
Simplified Pronunciation
US
KLEER thuh/ thee DEKS
UK
klee-UH thuh/ thee DEKS
Listen in Context
I need to clear the decks before I take on any more work.
She likes to clear the decks at the end of each week to feel organized.
Before starting my homework, I need to clear the decks.
Let's clear the decks so we can focus on the presentation.