Crossword Genius

How many will be returning in bow-ties? (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

two

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'how many will' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.

'returning in bow-ties?' is the wordplay.
'returning' shows that the letters should be reversed in order.
'in' indicates a hidden word.
'owt' is hidden within 'bow ties'.
'owt' in reverse letter order is 'TWO'.

'be' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for two that I've seen before include "''... turtle doves''" , "Number in company, some say" , "limited company?" , "Old song 'Tea for . . .'" , "Even number" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
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