Framework torn apart, it's an exorbitant amount to pay (4-4)
I believe the answer is:
rack-rent
'an exorbitant amount to pay' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.
'framework torn apart' is the wordplay.
'framework' becomes 'rack' (rack is a kind of framework).
'torn apart' becomes 'rent' (past tense of 'rend', to tear or rip).
'rack'+'rent'='RACK-RENT'
'it's' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for rack-rent that I've seen before include "What a predatory landlord charges" , "Excessively high charge by landlord" , "Extortionate payment demanded from a tenant" , "Extortionate amount charged for letting" .)