Crossword Genius

Fake restriction needing no introduction (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

imitation

'fake' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'restriction needing no introduction' is the wordplay.
'restriction' becomes 'limitation' (synonyms).
'needing no introduction' means to remove the first letter.
'limitation' with its first letter taken off is 'IMITATION'.

(Other definitions for imitation that I've seen before include "Counterfeit" , "created by the impressionist" , "Copy; copying" , "Artificial" , "Mock -- ersatz" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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