Crossword Genius

Ditch worker perhaps is cutting (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

trenchant

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

'ditch worker' is the wordplay.
'ditch' becomes 'trench' (synonyms).
'worker' becomes 'ant' (worker is a type of ant).
'trench'+'ant'='TRENCHANT'

'perhaps' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for trenchant that I've seen before include "Incisive in expression" , "Forthright, vigorous" , "Showing keenness" , "Incisive in style" , "blunt" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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