Crossword Genius

Approach freshly, if not being entirely original (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

renew

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'not being entirely original' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'approach freshly' is the wordplay.
'approach' becomes 're' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'freshly' becomes 'new' (synonyms).
're'+'new'='RENEW'

'if' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for renew that I've seen before include "modernise" , "Revive" , "Extend (subscription)" , "Reform" , "Restore, resume" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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