Crossword Genius

Friendly greeting is of greater importance, we’re told (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hiya

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

'friendly greeting' is the definition.
'hiya' can be an answer for 'greeting' (I've seen this before). I am not certain of the 'friendly' bit.

'of greater importance we're told' is the wordplay.
'of greater importance' becomes 'higher' (I've seen this in another clue).
'we're told' shows a homophone (sound like).
'higher' is a homophone of 'HIYA'.

'is' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hiya that I've seen before include "Informal 19 across" , "modern form of salve?" , "Hello!" , "Informal greeting" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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