Crossword Genius

Blooming ready? Start! (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

outset

'start' is the definition.
('outset' can be a synonym of 'start')

'blooming ready?' is the wordplay.
'blooming' becomes 'out' (I've seen this in other clues).
'ready?' becomes 'set' ('set' can be a synonym of 'ready'**).
'out'+'set'='OUTSET'

(Other definitions for outset that I've seen before include "Beginning, start" , "debut?" , "Starting point" , "Fruit" , "Opening stage" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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