Find in a state of dilapidation (3-4)
I believe the answer is:
run-down
'find' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
'state of dilapidation' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'state' could be 'nd' (abbreviation for North Dakota) and 'nd' is found in the answer.
'of' could be 'o' and 'o' is located in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).
'in a' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for run-down that I've seen before include "Dilapidated" , "Tired - unwell" , "Shabby" , "Exhausted" , "Worn-out" .)