The phrase "clear consciences" is often misspelled as "clear conscious". The correct spelling is "clear consciences" because conscience is a countable noun, meaning it can be pluralized. The IPA transcription for this phrase is /klɪər ˈkɒnʃənsɪz/, which shows the pronunciation of each sound in the word. The /sɪz/ at the end indicates the plural form of conscience. Having "clear consciences" means that one is free from guilt or wrongdoing.
"Clear conscience" refers to a state of psychological and moral satisfaction achieved when an individual believes they have acted in a morally upright and ethical manner. It is a subjective state of peace, tranquility, and absence of guilt or remorse resulting from the belief that one's actions have adhered to their personal values, principles, and sense of right and wrong.
In this context, the term "clear" implies the absence of doubts or uncertainties about one's actions, while "conscience" refers to an individual's internal moral compass or inner voice guiding their behavior and shaping their perception of right and wrong. It is a concept deeply rooted in one's moral, ethical, and cultural beliefs, reflecting a sense of integrity and accountability towards oneself and others.
Having a clear conscience often entails aligning intentions, attitudes, and behaviors with one's core values, personal standards, and societal norms. It requires individuals to act honestly, consider the impact of their actions, and take responsibility for their choices. Achieving a clear conscience can grant a sense of emotional freedom, inner harmony, and confidence in one's ethical decisions, enhancing overall well-being and mental satisfaction.
Contrarily, those lacking a clear conscience might experience feelings of guilt, shame, or remorse, indicating a departure from their perceived moral standards. Cultivating and maintaining a clear conscience can contribute to fostering integrity, harmony in relationships, and a sense of personal accomplishment.
The etymology of the word "clear conscience" can be traced back to Old English and Latin roots.
The word "clear" comes from the Old English word "clæne", meaning "free from dirt, stains, or impurities". This word evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "klenaz", which has similar meanings. The "clear" in "clear conscience" refers to a state of purity or cleanliness, suggesting that one's conscience is free from guilt or wrongdoing.
The word "conscience" comes from the Latin word "conscientia", which means "knowledge within oneself" or "inner sense of right and wrong". This Latin word is derived from the verb "conscire", which combines "con" (meaning "with" or "together") and "scire" (meaning "to know").