Crossword Genius

Method analyst uses cunningly as I recite on sofa? (4,11)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

free association

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'method analyst' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

'cunningly as i recite on sofa?' is the wordplay.
'cunningly' indicates anagramming the letters (a cunning or tricky form of the letters).
'as'+'i'+'recite'+'on'+'sofa'='asireciteonsofa'
'asireciteonsofa' anagrammed gives 'FREE ASSOCIATION'.

'uses' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for free association that I've seen before include "Freudian technique" , "Trick cyclist's technique" , "Organisation not making charge" , "to provide a useful train of thought" , "Psychoanalytical test" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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