Crossword Genius

Answer involves revolutionary stage for benefactors (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

angels

'benefactors' is the definition.
(angel is a kind of benefactor)

'answer involves revolutionary stage' is the wordplay.
'answer' becomes 'ans' (A common abbreviation).
'involves' indicates putting letters inside.
'revolutionary' shows that the letters should be reversed in order.
'stage' becomes 'leg' (synonyms).
'leg' reversed gives 'gel'.
'ans' going around 'gel' is 'ANGELS'.

'for' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for angels that I've seen before include "Financial backers, esp theatrical" , "Cherubim, seraphim etc" , "Winged heavenly messengers" , "Misprint" , "Heavenely guardians" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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