Idioms

a clean break

clean break

A complete removal from a (usually negative) situation, relationship, or attachment, with no intention of returning. After spending years in an emotionally abusive relationship, Patrick finally decided to make a clean break and leave his girlfriend. I had hoped my ex and I would stay friends after our breakup, but she really needed to make a clean break—that's why I haven't talked to her. I got bullied pretty badly at that school and needed to make a clean break sooner rather than later.
See also: break, clean
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

a clean ˈbreak

a complete separation from a person, an organization, a way of life, etc: She wanted to make a clean break with the past and start again.
See also: break, clean
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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