Definition

Noun: A clearway is a road, typically a major or fast road, where vehicles are not permitted to stop at any time, except in the case of a breakdown or another genuine emergency. The primary purpose is to maintain a steady flow of traffic and prevent congestion.

Usage

The word "clearway" is used to specify a type of road with strict no-stopping regulations. It is often seen on official road signs. - As a subject: "The clearway begins after the next junction." - As an object: "You must not park on a clearway." - With a preposition: "There are heavy fines for stopping on a clearway."

Examples

• "The sign indicated we were entering a , so we had to keep moving."
• "Emergency vehicles can use the to avoid traffic jams."
• "If your car breaks down on a , you should try to move it to the hard shoulder."

Advanced Usage

• "Clearway regulations": Refers to the specific traffic laws governing such roads.
  • Clearway regulations are strictly enforced during rush hour.
• "Urban clearway": A specific type of clearway, often in a city, where stopping might be allowed outside of certain peak hours, as indicated by signs.
  • It's an urban clearway, so you can stop here after 7 PM.

Variants and Related Words

• Clearway functions solely as a noun. There is no direct verb form (e.g., "to clearway" is incorrect).
• Hard shoulder: The emergency stopping lane on a motorway or clearway.
• No-stopping zone: A more general term for any area where stopping is prohibited.

Synonyms

• Throughway / Thruway (chiefly US): A major road for fast traffic.
• Arterial road: A major road, often with limited stopping.
• No-parking zone: A related but sometimes less strict term (may allow for brief passenger drop-off).

Antonyms

• Layby / Rest area: A designated area where drivers can stop safely.
• Service station: A place where stopping is permitted for refueling or services.

Related Phrases

• "In force on a clearway": Describes when the no-stopping rules are active.
  • The clearway rules are in force 24 hours a day.
• "Clearway ends": A common sign indicating the point where the no-stopping restriction is no longer applicable.

Noun

1. a road on which you are not allowed to stop (unless you have a breakdown)