Is Clean an Adjective?

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Yes, “clean” is an adjective with a wide range of meanings and applications. It is a versatile word that can describe various aspects of cleanliness, purity, and simplicity. Let’s delve deeper into the different ways “clean” can be used as an adjective.

1. Free from Dirt or Pollution

When used as an adjective, “clean” can describe something that is free from dirt, marks, or impurities. This is the most common and straightforward usage of the word. For example:

  • “This table isn’t clean. There’s a sticky spot where something spilled.”
  • “The clean air in the countryside is a refreshing change from the polluted city.”
  • “After a thorough scrubbing, the kitchen counters are now clean and sparkling.”

In these cases, “clean” indicates that the surface, environment, or object is free from any visible dirt, stains, or contaminants.

2. Unadulterated or Pure

is clean an adjective

The adjective “clean” can also be used to describe something that is pure, unadulterated, or free from any kind of contamination or impurity. This usage often applies to abstract concepts or experiences. For example:

  • “The clean thrill of one’s first flight.”
  • “The clean taste of a freshly brewed cup of coffee.”
  • “The clean, uninterrupted sound of a violin solo.”

In these instances, “clean” suggests a sense of purity, clarity, and absence of any unwanted elements or adulterations.

3. Free from Moral Corruption or Sinister Connections

When applied to a person or their record, the adjective “clean” can indicate that they are free from any moral corruption, criminal activity, or sinister associations. For example:

  • “A candidate with a clean record is more likely to gain the public’s trust.”
  • “The company has a clean reputation, with no history of unethical practices.”
  • “She has a clean criminal record, which makes her a suitable candidate for the position.”

In this context, “clean” signifies a lack of any negative or questionable activities or connections, which can be an important consideration in various professional and personal situations.

4. Ceremonially or Spiritually Pure

In certain religious or spiritual contexts, the adjective “clean” can be used to describe someone or something that is ceremonially or spiritually pure. This usage is often found in religious texts and teachings. For example:

  • “And all who are clean may eat flesh—Leviticus 7:19 (Revised Standard Version).”
  • “The clean of heart shall see God.”
  • “The priest must perform a ritual to make the person clean before they can participate in the ceremony.”

In these cases, “clean” refers to a state of ritual or spiritual purity, which may be required for certain religious practices or to be in the presence of the divine.

5. Habitually Neat

When used as an adjective, “clean” can also describe someone or something that is habitually neat, tidy, and free from dirt or disorder. This usage often applies to individuals, animals, or living spaces. For example:

  • “Cats are very clean animals, grooming themselves regularly.”
  • “She is a clean and organized person, with a spotless home.”
  • “The clean and well-maintained appearance of the office building impressed the visitors.”

In these instances, “clean” suggests a consistent state of neatness, order, and attention to cleanliness, which can be a desirable trait in various contexts.

6. Free from Harmful or Unpleasant Substances

The adjective “clean” can be used to describe something that is free from any harmful or unpleasant substances, such as chemicals, toxins, or contaminants. This usage is particularly common when referring to food, water, or other consumable products. For example:

  • “Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health.”
  • “The clean, organic produce from the local farm is free from pesticides.”
  • “The clean, natural ingredients in this skincare product make it gentle on the skin.”

In these cases, “clean” indicates that the item in question is safe, pure, and devoid of any potentially harmful or undesirable elements.

7. Smooth or Simple

When applied to physical objects or actions, the adjective “clean” can describe something that is smooth, simple, or regular in its shape, edge, or execution. For example:

  • “A sharp knife makes a clean cut through the meat.”
  • “The clean lines of the modern architecture create a sleek and elegant appearance.”
  • “The plane made a clean takeoff, without any turbulence or complications.”

In these instances, “clean” suggests a sense of precision, efficiency, and absence of any irregularities or complications.

8. Fair or Legal

In the context of sports, games, or other competitive activities, the adjective “clean” can be used to describe an action or performance that is fair, legal, and free from any unfair or unsportsmanlike conduct. For example:

  • “It was a tough but clean game, with both teams playing by the rules.”
  • “The athlete’s clean record of sportsmanship and fair play earned them the respect of their peers.”
  • “The referee ensured that the match was played in a clean and ethical manner.”

In these cases, “clean” indicates that the activity or behavior in question is within the bounds of the rules and regulations, without any violations or questionable actions.

9. Accurate or Skillful

When used to describe certain actions or performances, the adjective “clean” can imply a sense of accuracy, precision, and skillfulness. This usage is often found in the context of technical or athletic endeavors. For example:

  • “The plane made a clean takeoff, without any issues.”
  • “The gymnast’s clean landing on the balance beam earned them a high score.”
  • “The musician’s clean and flawless rendition of the piece was a testament to their technical mastery.”

In these instances, “clean” suggests that the action or performance was executed in a skilled, accurate, and error-free manner.

10. Tasting, Smelling, or Looking Pleasant and Fresh

Finally, the adjective “clean” can be used to describe something that has a pleasant, fresh, and appealing taste, smell, or appearance. This usage is often found in the context of food, beverages, or other sensory experiences. For example:

  • “The wine has a clean taste and a lovely golden color.”
  • “The clean, refreshing scent of the citrus-infused soap is invigorating.”
  • “The clean, crisp appearance of the freshly laundered sheets is inviting.”

In these cases, “clean” indicates that the item in question has a pleasant, uncontaminated, and appealing sensory quality, which can be a desirable characteristic in various contexts.

Conclusion

The adjective “clean” is a versatile and multifaceted word that can be used to describe a wide range of characteristics and qualities. From physical cleanliness to moral purity, from smooth simplicity to accurate skill, the various meanings and applications of “clean” as an adjective highlight its importance in the English language. Understanding the nuances of this adjective can help you communicate more effectively and precisely in a variety of contexts.

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