Crossword Genius

Copied it stopping one getting married? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

imitated

'copied' is the definition.
('imitate' can be a synonym of 'copy')

'it stopping one getting married?' is the wordplay.
'stopping' indicates putting letters inside (stopping can mean blocking a gap).
'one' becomes 'i' (Roman numeral).
'getting' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'married?' becomes 'mated' (similar in meaning).
'i'+'mated'='imated'
'it' going within 'imated' is 'IMITATED'.

(Other definitions for imitated that I've seen before include "Copied the behaviour or mannerisms of" , "Aped, copied" , "most sincerely flattered?" , "Followed" , "Copied, simulated" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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