Crossword Genius

Maybe contemplative second acts in plays (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

monastic

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'maybe contemplative' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'second acts in plays' is the wordplay.
'second' becomes 'mo' (both are short periods of time).
'plays' is an anagram indicator.
'acts'+'in'='actsin'
'actsin' anagrammed gives 'nastic'.
'mo'+'nastic'='MONASTIC'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for monastic that I've seen before include "Of sequestered life under religious vows" , "Reclusive" , "following order" , "Austere" , "Relating to life in a cloister" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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