Crossword Genius

Christmas for Japanese drama student (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

noel

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'christmas' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'japanese drama student' is the wordplay.
'japanese drama' becomes 'noe' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'student' becomes 'l' (as in L-plates for learner drivers).
'noe'+'l'='NOEL'

'for' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for noel that I've seen before include "Xmas refrain" , "Coward - Christmas" , "See 7 Across" , "Christmas time" , "Christmastime" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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