Crossword Genius

Cut, thus causing severe reduction (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sever

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

'cut thus' is the definition.
'sever' can be an answer for 'cut' (to sever is to cut or split). I am unsure of the 'thus' bit.

'severe reduction' is the wordplay.
'reduction' means to remove the last letter.
'severe' with its final letter taken off is 'SEVER'.

'causing' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sever that I've seen before include "Detach" , "Lop off" , "Verse (anag)" , "Divide, cut" , "Divorce" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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