Crossword Genius

Habits of well-bred philosophers? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

usages

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'habits' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'well-bred philosophers?' is the wordplay.
'well-bred' becomes 'u' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'philosophers?' becomes 'sages' (I've seen this in another clue).
'u'+'sages'='USAGES'

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for usages that I've seen before include "Customary treatments, practices" , "Customs." , "Linguistic norms" , "Habitual or customary practices" , "Habitual practices with words" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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