Clearance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clearance

[หˆklษชษ™rษ™ns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

security

Clearance refers to the level of authorization needed to access certain information or enter specific areas. It is often used in the context of security checks and government agencies.

Synonyms

access, authorization, permission.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clearance

Best used when referring to official permission for entry or participation, usually involving security checks or levels.

  • She received clearance to visit the restricted area
  • Military personnel need security clearance
authorization

Applicable when dealing with formal approval or power given to someone, often in a legal or official capacity.

  • The manager has the authorization to approve expenses
  • You need authorization from the board to initiate the project
permission

Used when referring to consent or approval granted by a person or authority to do something.

  • He asked for permission to leave early
  • You need parental permission to go on the school trip
access

Use when referring to the ability to enter or use a place, system, or resource.

  • He has access to the companyโ€™s database
  • Employees need a keycard for building access

Examples of usage

  • Employees must undergo background checks to obtain security clearances.
  • Only individuals with the proper clearance are allowed in the restricted area.
Context #2 | Noun

sales

Clearance can also refer to a sale or discount on merchandise to clear out inventory. It is commonly seen in retail stores to make room for new products.

Synonyms

discount, markdown, sale.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clearance

Use 'clearance' when referring to a significant reduction in prices to make room for new inventory, usually at the end of a season or when discontinuing products.

  • The store is having a summer clearance event to make room for fall items
  • Everything must go at the clearance sale!
sale

Use 'sale' when referring to any event where items are offered at reduced prices. It is a broad term that can include discounts, markdowns, and clearance events.

  • There's a big sale happening at the mall this weekend
  • Don't miss our annual sale with huge savings on all items
discount

Use 'discount' to generally indicate a lowered price for a limited time, often expressed as a percentage off the original price. Discounts can be used for various promotions, including holidays, special events, or customer loyalty programs.

  • Get a 20% discount on all electronics this weekend
  • Use the promo code for an additional discount at checkout
markdown

Use 'markdown' to describe a reduction in price, with emphasis on the act of lowering the price. This term is often used in retail to signify that items now have lower prices than originally set.

  • The manager decided to apply a markdown to all unsold holiday merchandise
  • The winter coats have been marked down to clear out the winter stock

Examples of usage

  • The store is having a clearance sale to make space for the new collection.
  • All items on clearance are marked down by 50%.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Retail

  • Clearance sales typically occur at the end of a season, helping stores make room for new inventory.
  • Retailers often use clearance pricing strategies to boost customer interest and increase sales volume quickly.
  • The term can also refer to items sold at a significantly reduced price, attracting bargain hunters.

Finance

  • In financial contexts, clearance may refer to the process of settling transactions or ensuring that funds move between parties.
  • The concept of clearance and settlement is crucial in stock exchanges, ensuring that trades are finalized correctly.
  • Improper clearance in finance can lead to errors, leading to potential losses and legal issues.

Psychology

  • Decluttering, which is similar to clearance, can have positive effects on mental well-being by reducing anxiety and creating a more calming environment.
  • The idea of clearance can metaphorically apply to emotional or psychological 'clearing out,' such as letting go of past grievances.
  • Research shows that a clean, organized space can enhance productivity and focus.

Environment

  • In environmental contexts, clearance may refer to the removal of trees or vegetation for urban development or agriculture, often leading to discussions about biodiversity.
  • Clearance activities in nature can significantly impact ecosystems, leading to habitat loss for wildlife.
  • Sustainable clearance practices encourage mindful management of land and resources to preserve ecological balance.

Origin of 'clearance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English word 'clere', which means to brighten or free from obscurity.
  • Originally used in the context of clearing land or obstacles, it evolved to imply making things unobstructed or free.
  • The term has been part of the English language since the early 15th century, reflecting ideas of clarity and space.

The word 'clearance' originated from the verb 'clear' in the early 18th century, with the sense of 'making clear or unobstructed'. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to authorization, sales, and discounts.


See also: clarity, clear, clearing, clearly, clearness, unclear, unclearly, unclearness.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,749 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.