Crossword Genius

Is it judged by experts on figures? (6,7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

beauty contest

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

'it judged by experts on figures?' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'is' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'is' could be 'be' and 'be' is found in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for beauty contest that I've seen before include "Where might a queen be crowned" , "Competition to be Miss Wherever" , "Miss World, for example" , "Looks show" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app