Crossword Genius

Felt sorry for sleuth in chains? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pitied

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'felt sorry for' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'sleuth in chains?' is the wordplay.
'sleuth' becomes 'pi' (private investigator).
'in chains?' becomes 'tied' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'pi'+'tied'='PITIED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pitied that I've seen before include "Felt sorry for, sympathised with" , "Commiserated" , "Felt compassion toward" , "Tie dip (anag.)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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