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Region: General | Usage example: He kept his nose clean to advance into leadership.

Keep your nose clean

Meaning

Avoid trouble or misconduct.

Usage

Used when advising good behavior.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Police slang about staying out of messy situations.

Popular in early 20th-century crime reports and parenting guides.

Related Idioms

Keep your nose to the grindstone

Work diligently without distraction.

Keep your cards close to your chest

Remain secretive about your plans.

Keep your head down

Avoid drawing attention, especially in difficult situations.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.