Crossword Genius

Like the point of interest when Charlie takes a horse out? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

focal

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

'like the point of interest' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'charlie takes a horse out?' is the wordplay.
'charlie' becomes 'c' (phonetic alphabet: alpha, bravo, charlie etc.).
'takes a horse' becomes 'foal' (I can't justify this - if you can you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'out?' indicates putting letters inside.
'c' placed into 'foal' is 'FOCAL'.

'when' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for focal that I've seen before include "-- Length, -- plane; -- point" , "sort of length" , "- length characterises a lens" , "Type of length or point" , "and 21 Across: Centre of attraction" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.