come clean
idiom
Admit the truth about something previously hidden or lied about
- 1After hours of questioning, he finally decided to come clean about the incident.
- 2She knew it was time to come clean and tell her parents the truth.
To "come clean" means to finally tell the truth about something you have been hiding or lying about. It is like confessing or owning up to something that you have been keeping secret or not being honest about.
Be prepared for the consequences when you come clean. It may be difficult, but honesty is always the best policy in the long run. Remember that admitting the truth shows integrity and courage.
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in a restaurant
The Missing Wallet
Karen
Cynthia, I noticed my wallet is missing after we left the table.
Cynthia
Oh, Karen, I have to come clean. I accidentally took it, thinking it was mine.
Karen
I'm glad you told me. Let's check if everything is still inside.
Cynthia
Absolutely, let's do that right away.
in a barn
The Missing Tools
Steven
Melissa, I noticed some tools are missing from the shed.
Melissa
I was hoping you wouldn't notice, but I should come clean.
Steven
What happened?
Melissa
I borrowed them for a project and forgot to return them.
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Similar to "come clean":
- 1confess
- 2admit
- 3reveal