make a clean break (from/with someone or something



make a clean break (from/with someone or something)

To remove oneself wholly and permanently from a relationship, situation, or attachment. I've been lingering too much on the mistakes I made in the past. It's high time I made a clean break and started fresh! The esteemed scientist, having made a clean break with her former university, has set up a new research firm in Silicon Valley. I think I need to make a clean break from Robert. Our relationship has just grown so co-dependent lately.
See also: break, clean, make

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Gabrijela-Croatian
Thucydidesthoo-SID-ə-deez (English)Ancient Greek (Latinized)
PrissyPRIS-eeEnglish
EssieES-eeEnglish
Lovel-English (Rare)
Diamanda-Various