Crossword Genius

Edited clue — firm but forgiving (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

merciful

'forgiving' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'edited clue firm' is the wordplay.
'edited' indicates anagramming the letters.
'clue'+'firm'='cluefirm'
'cluefirm' is an anagram of 'MERCIFUL'.

'but' is the link.

(Other definitions for merciful that I've seen before include "Kind" , "Clement - forbearing" , "Humane" , "Compassionate, forgiving" , "Being disposed to show clemency" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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