Crossword Genius

A leader in evil ways (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sinew

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'a leader' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how one could define the other.

'evil ways' is the wordplay.
'evil' becomes 'sin' (synonyms).
'ways' becomes 'ew' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'sin'+'ew'='SINEW'

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sinew that I've seen before include "power source" , "Tough material" , "Strength; tendon" , "Cord of tissue connecting muscle to bone" , "It indicates strength" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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