Crossword Genius

American expert is ready for action (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

usable

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'ready for action' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives. Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'american expert' is the wordplay.
'american' becomes 'us' (abbreviation for United States).
'expert' becomes 'able' (I've seen this before).
'us'+'able'='USABLE'

'is' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for usable that I've seen before include "fit to wear" , "Of potential utility" , "Serviceable" , "at one's disposal" , "Fit for purpose" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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