"clear" in the meaning of "clean"

[mrwroc]

Can I change the following sentences with the word "clean" to sentences with the word "clear" and the same meaning?

Could you clean up the room? --> Could you clear up the room?
The room is clean. --> The room is clear.

 

[jutfrank]

No, those two words have quite different meanings. What do you mean to say? What exactly is the problem with the room?

 

[probus]

In general, no, but perhaps in a very special context. If the room was littered for example, a native speaker might choose "clear up". "Clean up", on the other hand, works in any context.

Cross-posted with Jutfrank.

 

[mrwroc]

So, it is better not to use "clear" instead of "clean" if you want to tell for example a maid that the room is clean (clear) and she don't need to clean (clear) it, yes?

 

[jutfrank]

Yes. Maids clean rooms.

 

[mrwroc]

Is it possible that clear up = clean up only in British English? Because in Cambridge Dictionary I found:

clear (something) up

1. to make a place tidy by removing things from it or putting them where they…

dictionary.cambridge.org

clear (sth) up
mainly UK - to make a place tidy by removing things from it or putting them where they should be:
Dad was clearing up in the kitchen.
I'm tired of always having to clear up after you (= tidy your things).

Dad was clearing up in the kitchen. - It means that dad was CLEANing up in the kitchen? If not, what else could he do there?
I'm tired of always having to clear up after you. - It means that I'm tired of always having to CLEAN up after you?

 

[5jj]

Dad was clearing up in the kitchen. - It means that dad was CLEANing up in the kitchen?

No.

If not, what else could he do there?

He could clear up! Put away all the pots, pans, plates, dishes, and food containers that somebody else had left on the work surface and the table after preparing a meal.

 

[probus]

Yes, I think "clear up" is BrE and not generally used in AmE.