扫除 (sǎo chú) literally combines 扫 (sǎo, 'to sweep') and 除 (chú, 'to remove or eliminate'), evoking the image of sweeping away dirt — but it’s used almost exclusively for abstract, intangible things like problems, obstacles, misunderstandings, or harmful influences. It carries a formal, purposeful, and often positive connotation — implying deliberate, thorough action toward improvement or purification.

This verb is common in written Chinese, official speeches, news reports, and health or social policy contexts — for example, '扫除文盲' (eliminate illiteracy) or '扫除腐败' (eradicate corruption). It is rarely used for physical cleaning (that’s 打扫 or 清理); confusing it with literal sweeping is a frequent learner error. The object is typically abstract and socially significant, often paired with nouns like 障碍 (obstacles), 隐患 (hidden dangers), or 偏见 (prejudice).