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A ruse to inspire, if unhealthily? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

wheeze

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

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for wheeze that I've seen before include "Chest whistle - spiffing plan" , "Struggle for breath - cunning plan" , "Breath with difficulty" , "Idea - breathe badly" , "make whistles?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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