The phrase often implies a strong emotional decision to leave something behind without looking back. She needed a clean break from her stressful job to find peace.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Just Physical
A clean break can also mean leaving behind habits, beliefs, or emotions, not only physical locations or people. He made a clean break from his past beliefs and started anew.
Pro Tip 3/3
Positive Change
It often suggests the person is seeking a positive change or fresh start. After years of conflict, they finally made a clean break and felt liberated.