a clear line of something
Meaning(s)
1. nothing blocking your view, nothing in your way
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
a clear line of sight/thought/communication
Analysis
To have a 'clear line' means to have a pathway or connection to something or someone which is not obstructed in any way. You could have a 'clear line of communication' meaning you are directly communicating with the person you need to talk to. A 'clear line of sight' meaning there is nothing obstructing your view from one place to another, or a 'clear line of thought' whereby your thoughts are focused. These are idiomatic phrases used in professional and social contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- To get good WiFi, you really need a clear line of sight between your home and the antenna.
- The Sniper needed a clear line of sight before he could take his shot.
- When the bank robber took hostages, the police created a clear line of communication to make sure everyone was safe.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I had a clear line of thought until you interrupted me. Now I can't remember what I was thinking.
- They made the argument with a clear line of reasoning, and everyone was convinced.