Sober primarily has two related meanings:

1. Not affected by alcohol; not drunk. It refers to the state of not being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
2. Serious, sensible, and solemn. In a broader sense, it can describe a person's demeanor or character, indicating that they are calm, restrained, and free from exaggeration or frivolity.

The term is often used in the context of recovery from substance abuse, where "being sober" means abstaining from alcohol or drugs.

In alcoholism and substance abuse, "recovery" is the journey to overcome addiction, not just by stopping drug or alcohol use but also by enhancing physical, mental, and emotional health, often with counseling or 12-step programs. It's about rebuilding life, repairing relationships, and returning to society productively. This holistic approach addresses addiction's root causes and effects, recognizing that lifelong commitment and personal growth are key to preventing relapse.

In the context of alcoholism and substance abuse, "clean" refers to:

Being free from the use of drugs or alcohol.

When someone says they are "clean," it typically means they are abstaining from drug or alcohol use. It's a term commonly used in recovery communities to describe a state of sobriety or a period of time without substance use. For instance, someone might say they have been "clean for six months," indicating they haven't used drugs or alcohol for that duration.