Collocations are words that usually go together in English.
Here we are going to look at words that go with 'clear' to make useful and popular expressions you will hear in social and professional contexts.
Become clear
If something 'becomes clear' it starts to make sense or develops in a way that makes it more obvious or understandable.
Examples
- I know things seem complicated at the moment, but they will become clear as we go along.
- What the boss is trying to achieve with his plan is becoming clearer now. At first, I couldn't quite get my head around it.
- After about a week in my new job, it became clear to me that I could no longer work in such a toxic environment.
Crystal clear
Something 'crystal clear' is unambiguous and very easy to understand. It leaves no room for error or confusion.
Examples
- I want this article written by 5 pm today. Do I make myself crystal clear?
- Are you crystal clear on what you have to do? We can't afford any mistakes.
- That's crystal clear. Thanks for explaining it to me.
Not quite clear
If you are 'not quite clear' about something, you are not completely or entirely certain about it.
Examples
- I'm not quite clear about that. Do you mind going through it again with me?
- It's not quite clear what the new owner intends to do with the business. Time will tell.
- Things aren't quite clear at the moment. I'll get back to you when I have more details.
Reasonably clear
If something is 'reasonably clear', it is only fairly or moderately understandable or obvious.
Examples
- It's reasonably clear that Mary is guilty of causing the accident, but there isn't enough evidence to prosecute her.
- I'm reasonably clear about what I have to do, but I could have done with more instruction.
Abundantly clear
When you make something 'abundantly clear', you make it very obvious or easy to understand. This often involves being extremely blunt with somebody.
Examples
- Let me make this abundantly clear - if you do not improve your attitude you will be fired.
- Sarah made her feelings towards Karl abundantly clear.
- It has become abundantly clear that I'm no longer wanted here, so I think I'll leave.