Crossword Genius

American President initially has reduced chilly reception, being unable to make speech? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

aphasic

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'unable to make speech?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'american president initially has reduced chilly reception' is the wordplay.
'initially' suggests taking the first letters.
'reduced chilly reception' becomes 'ic' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
The initial letters of 'american president' is 'ap'.
'ap'+'has'+'ic'='APHASIC'

'being' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for aphasic that I've seen before include "Speechless because of brain damage; as a chip (anag.)" , "Unable to use language" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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