The term 'clears up' can be explained by two crossword solutions: EXPLAINS (8 letters) and OPENS (5 letters). EXPLAINS means to make something understandable or to provide an explanation for something, while OPENS means to start or to begin. Together, the two words suggest that 'clears up' is a phrase used to describe the process of making something understandable or providing an explanation for it, as well as starting or beginning something.