Crossword Genius

Forgiveness for a second-rate answer (10)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

absolution

'forgiveness' is the definition.
(absolution is release from guilt)

'a second-rate answer' is the wordplay.
'second rate' becomes 'b'.
'answer' becomes 'solution' (synonyms).
'a'+'b'+'solution'='ABSOLUTION'

'for' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for absolution that I've seen before include "acquittal" , "discharge" , "pardon" , "Forgiveness" , "Release from guilt" .)

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