Crossword Genius

Loose grasp of property tenure? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

freehold

'property tenure?' is the definition.

'loose grasp' is the wordplay.
'loose' becomes 'free' ('free' can be a synonym of 'loose').
'grasp' becomes 'hold' ('hold' can be a synonym of 'grasp').
'free'+'hold'='FREEHOLD'

'of' is the link.

(Other definitions for freehold that I've seen before include "Permanent and absolute tenure" , "Way of owning property" , "Property to keep" , "Unencumbered property, without a lease" , "Permanent tenure of land or property" .)

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