Crossword Genius

Easy when half-cut, checks for groups with attractive bodies (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

systems

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'bodies' is the definition.
(I know this)

'easy when half-cut checks' is the wordplay.
'when half-cut' suggests halving the letters.
'checks' becomes 'stems' (check can mean to stem or stop).
'easy' halved is 'sy'.
'sy'+'stems'='SYSTEMS'

'for groups with attractive' is the link.
This may not be correct. Some or all of it may be part of another bit of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for systems that I've seen before include "procedures" , "Groups of independent but interrelated elements" , "Arrangements of units that function together" , "Sets of connected things in working wholes" , "ways of proceeding" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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