Crossword Genius

Not fully in form, Paul gets out and it hurts! (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

painful

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

'not fully in' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for painful that I've seen before include "Agonising" , "Causing trouble or difficulty - it hurts" , "Distressing or hurtful" , "Tender" , "Inflamed" .)

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