Crossword Genius

Like a word, however Balzac uses it (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

verbal

'like a word' is the definition.

'however balzac uses it' is the wordplay.
'uses it' indicates a hidden word.
'VERBAL' is hidden within 'however balzac'.

(Other definitions for verbal that I've seen before include "It's said" , "Spoken (abuse)" , "Expressed in words" , "Sound (the hour); find (oil)" , "statement to police" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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