Crossword Genius

Dad gets by with something to read (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

paper

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

'something to read' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'dad gets by' is the wordplay.
'dad' becomes 'pa' (both can mean one's father).
'gets' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'by' becomes 'per' (I've seen this in another clue).
'pa'+'per'='PAPER'

'with' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for paper that I've seen before include "It's made from wood pulp generally" , "Dissertation" , "Written essay" , "daily read?" , "Writing sheet(s)?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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