start over with a clean slate

[birdeen's call]

What does this expression mean? When can we use it? Why do we use the word "slate" in it?

 

[emsr2d2]

What does this expression mean? When can we use it? Why do we use the word "slate" in it?

I believe it goes back to the days when writing was done on a piece of slate using a piece of chalk.

When the slate was full (no more space left on it), you would have to erase the writing in order to start again (start over) with a "clean slate".

 

[emsr2d2]

This may also help: Object Lessons :: Childhood :: Victorian School Slate and Pencil

 

[richuk]

What does this expression mean? When can we use it? Why do we use the word "slate" in it?

Not a teacher.

I believe it means 'to have a fresh start with a clear conscience'

A person has committed a crime but they have made up for what they have done wrong and intend to now live an honest life then they could be described as starting over with a clean slate.

Slate was used to write on many years ago so it refers to the idea of having a clean conscience to move forward without the past dragging you down.

It may refer to other situations but this is one that comes to mind.

 

[birdeen's call]

Thank you!

 

[BobK]

I believe it goes back to the days when writing was done on a piece of slate using a piece of chalk...

Smile when you say that ;-) (I used one at school in the mid '50s.)

b

 

[BobK]

PS Another version of 'clean slate' is the Latin tabula rasa - which is still sometimes used in Br. Eng, and refers to an earlier writing technology. The tabula was a sort of tray filled with wax. The writer scratched the characters with a stylus, and shaved of the top layer (think of 'razor') in order to start afresh.

b

 

[emsr2d2]

Smile when you say that ;-) (I used one at school in the mid '50s.)

b

Ah, back in the days when children were actually TAUGHT! :-D