Crossword Genius

Bruised rib removed mistakenly, so they claimed? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sued

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

'they claimed?' is the definition.
The definition suggests an adverb but the answer is not.

'bruised rib removed mistakenly' is the wordplay.
'removed' suggests deleting specific letters.
'mistakenly' indicates an anagram.
'bruised' with 'rib' taken away is 'used'.
'used' is an anagram of 'SUED'.

'so' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sued that I've seen before include "Brought an action against" , "Started legal proceedings against (someone)" , "Took legal action against" , "taken to court" , "Prosecuted" .)

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