Crossword Genius

Against fool having a learner's subjects? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

vassals

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

'subjects?' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'against fool having a learner's' is the wordplay.
'against' becomes 'v' (abbreviation for 'versus').
'fool' becomes 'ass' (both can mean a stupid person).
'having' says to put letters next to each other.
'learner's' becomes 'l's' (as in a learner driver with L-plates on their car).
'v'+'ass'+'a'+'ls'='VASSALS'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for vassals that I've seen before include "They held land in return for services to overlord" , "Feudal retainers" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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