Crossword Genius

A firm way with a strong line (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cord

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

'a strong line' is the definition.
'cord' can be an answer for 'line' (cord is a kind of line). I'm not sure about the 'a strong' bit.

'a firm way' is the wordplay.
'a firm' becomes 'co' (a firm is a company).
'way' becomes 'rd' (**).
'co'+'rd'='CORD'

'with' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cord that I've seen before include "Line of twisted fibres or threads" , "Thin string" , "Small rope or thick string" , "A measure of cut wood" , "Small rope; flex" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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