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Keep One's Nose Clean

What Does "Keep One's Nose Clean" Mean?

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"Keep one's nose clean" is an English idiom. It means "to stay out of trouble."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "keep one's nose clean" used in a sentence:
  • You've been given a second chance, so make sure to keep your nose clean.
  • He promised to keep his nose clean after getting out of jail.
  • She's been keeping her nose clean, focusing on her studies and avoiding bad influences.
meaning for keep one's nose clean

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Keep One's Nose Clean" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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