Crossword Genius

Being cut off is dire, all new connector leads must be installed (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

severance

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

'new connector leads must be installed' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'being cut off is dire all' is the wordplay.
'being cut off' means to remove the last letter.
'is dire' becomes 'severe' (I've seen this in another clue).
'all' becomes 'ance' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'severe' with its last letter taken away is 'sever'.
'sever'+'ance'='SEVERANCE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for severance that I've seen before include "split" , "Detachment" , "Dismissal from employment" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app