Crossword Genius

Could be spite due to being subordinates (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

deputies

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'being subordinates' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'could be spite due' is the wordplay.
'could be' indicates an anagram.
'spite'+'due'='spitedue'
'spitedue' anagrammed gives 'DEPUTIES'.

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for deputies that I've seen before include "Persons authorised to act as substitutes for others" , "Political representatives" , "Stand-ins or next-in command officials" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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