Meaning
To feel no guilt.
Cultural Background
The phrase is often linked to the 'esame di coscienza' (examination of conscience), a Catholic practice of reflecting on one's sins before confession. The 'Mani Pulite' (Clean Hands) investigation of the 90s made the metaphor of 'cleanliness' a central part of Italian political identity. In some traditional contexts, 'coscienza' is tied to family honor. Having a clean conscience means you haven't brought shame to your family name. Younger generations use it more casually to dismiss 'drama' or social media accusations.
Agreement is Key
Always remember 'pulita' ends in 'a' because 'coscienza' is feminine. This is the most common mistake for English speakers.
Not for Cleaning
Don't use this if you've just cleaned your room. Use 'Ho pulito la camera' instead.
Meaning
To feel no guilt.
Agreement is Key
Always remember 'pulita' ends in 'a' because 'coscienza' is feminine. This is the most common mistake for English speakers.
Not for Cleaning
Don't use this if you've just cleaned your room. Use 'Ho pulito la camera' instead.
Use with 'Sentirsi'
Using 'Mi sento la coscienza pulita' sounds slightly more personal and emotional than just using 'avere'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the adjective.
Non ho mentito a nessuno, quindi ho la coscienza ______.
'Coscienza' is feminine singular, so 'pulita' is the correct agreement.
Which of these is the opposite of 'avere la coscienza pulita'?
L'opposto di 'avere la coscienza pulita' è:
'Sporca' (dirty) is the standard antonym for 'pulita' in this idiom.
Match the situation to the most appropriate use of the phrase.
In quale situazione diresti 'Ho la coscienza pulita'?
The phrase is used to assert moral innocence against an accusation.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'Avere la coscienza pulita'
Honesty
- • Telling the truth
- • Returning a wallet
- • Admitting a mistake
Work
- • Following rules
- • Fair treatment
- • Hard work
Practice Bank
3 exercisesNon ho mentito a nessuno, quindi ho la coscienza ______.
'Coscienza' is feminine singular, so 'pulita' is the correct agreement.
L'opposto di 'avere la coscienza pulita' è:
'Sporca' (dirty) is the standard antonym for 'pulita' in this idiom.
In quale situazione diresti 'Ho la coscienza pulita'?
The phrase is used to assert moral innocence against an accusation.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, while 'white' often symbolizes purity, the standard idiom in Italian is 'pulita' (clean). 'Coscienza bianca' is not used.
It is neutral. You can use it with your best friend or in a court of law.
You can say 'Ho la coscienza *abbastanza* pulita'.
Yes! 'Perdere coscienza' means to pass out. Context is everything.
Related Phrases
avere la coscienza sporca
contrastTo feel guilty.
mettersi la coscienza in pace
similarTo make peace with a decision.
un peso sulla coscienza
builds onA heavy burden of guilt.
agire in scienza e coscienza
specialized formTo act with professional knowledge and moral integrity.
