Crossword Genius

As stated, releases stoppage (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

freeze

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

'stoppage' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'as stated releases' is the wordplay.
'as stated' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue.
'releases' becomes 'frees' ('free' can be a synonym of 'release').
'frees' is a homophone of 'FREEZE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for freeze that I've seen before include "Stand motionless" , "Suddenly stop absolutely still" , "Change liquid to solid through cooling" , "Hold at fixed level - say prices" , "Solidify with cold" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app