Crossword Genius

Despair initially avoided may become hope (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

aspire

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'hope' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for aspire that I've seen before include "Have a strong desire to achieve something" , "Persia (anag.)" , "Wish to rise (to)" , "Long" , "I spare (anag.)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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