Crossword Genius

Delayed in a slippery situation? (2,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

on ice

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'delayed' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'in a slippery situation?' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'a' becomes 'one'.
'slippery situation?' becomes 'ic' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'one' enclosing 'ic' is 'ON ICE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for on ice that I've seen before include "In abeyance" , "Halted for a while" , "Predatory insect" , "Temporarily suspended" , "Held in reserve" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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