Crossword Genius

Figure to be defeated at the end of play (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

close

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'figure' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'be defeated at the end of play' is the wordplay.
'be defeated' becomes 'lose' (I've seen this before).
'at' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other) (I've seen this in other clues).
'the end of play' becomes 'c' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'lose' put after 'c' is 'CLOSE'.

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for close that I've seen before include "Dense; nearby" , "Complete, a deal or case say" , "block, > unventilated" , "Bar" , "Near; bring to an end" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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