Crossword Genius

In revision, keep a tight rein on short story that's mostly barbaric (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

brutal

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'barbaric' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for brutal that I've seen before include "Vicious" , "Callous" , "Disposed to inflict pain" , "Senselessly cruel" , "Cruel, animal-like" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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