Crossword Genius

Not immediately required to show mercy (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

spare

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'show mercy' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for spare that I've seen before include "Not required" , "Excess to requirements" , "Thin; left over" , "In reserve; pardon" , "slit at top of trousers in Scotland" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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