Crossword Genius

Force one’s way to the end of American thoroughfare (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thrust

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'force one's way' is the definition.

'the end of american thoroughfare' is the wordplay.
'the end of american' becomes 'thru' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'thoroughfare' becomes 'st' (I've seen this in other clues).
'thru'+'st'='THRUST'

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for thrust that I've seen before include "Driving force" , "Lunge; propulsive force" , "Push forcibly, say sword" , "Push powerfully; stab" , "Push suddenly forward" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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