Kind misdirection by Spooner for an undemanding question (5,3)

I believe the answer is:

white lie

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'kind' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for white lie that I've seen before include "pardonable offence" , "Something untrue, but forgivable" , "Minor falsehood" , "when a tactful comment is required" , "Minor untruth, a pale fib" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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