Crossword Genius

Launch advance and capture ordinary soldiers by the hundred (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

commence

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

'launch' is the definition.
(I know that launch is a more specific form of the action commence)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for commence that I've seen before include "open" , "Start, begin" , "Kick off" , "Start up, set about" , "Originate" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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