Acting style by lead on paper better (8)

I believe the answer is:

improved

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'better' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for improved that I've seen before include "Made better in quality" , "Became better" , "Made or got better" , "Grew or made better" , "Made progress" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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