Crossword Genius

A bit of peripheral damage (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rip

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

'a bit' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to natural events as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'of peripheral damage' is the wordplay.
'of' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'RIP' is hidden within 'peripheral damage'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rip that I've seen before include "Parting words" , "Letters often seen on gravestone" , "Letters for the deceased" , "inscription on tomb" , "Tear or split open" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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