Crossword Genius

Did coach sound tense? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

taught

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'did coach' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with communicating as well as being past participle verbs.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'sound tense?' is the wordplay.
'sound' shows a homophone (sound like).
'tense?' becomes 'taut' (similar in meaning).
'taut' sounds like 'TAUGHT'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for taught that I've seen before include "Gave instruction" , "Tutored" , "Imparted skills or knowledge to" , "disciplined" , "Was a teacher" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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