clear up

clear something up 

1. to make something more clear. Let the muddy water stand overnight so it will clear up. A strong wind blew in and cleared up the smoke in the air.

2. to explain something; to solve a mystery. I think that we can clear this matter up without calling in the police. First we have to clear up the problem of the missing jewels.

3. to cause a rash or inflammation to return to normal; to cause skin to "clear." There is some new medicine that will clear your rash up.

4. to cure a disease or a medical condition. The doctor will give you something to clear up your congestion.

See also: clear, up

clear up 

1. [for the sky] to become more clear or sunny. Suddenly, the sky cleared up. When the sky cleared up, the breeze began to blow.

2. [for something] to become more understandable. At about the middle of the very confusing lecture, things began to clear up. I was having trouble, but things are beginning to clear up.

3. [for a rash or skin condition] to clear the skin and return to normal. I'm sure your rash will clear up soon.

4. [for a minor illness] to improve or become cured. His cold cleared up after a couple of weeks.

See also: clear, up