One customarily applying force? (5)

I believe the answer is:

habit

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'force?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

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(Other definitions for habit that I've seen before include "Custom or monk's robe" , "Addiction to a drug" , "Settled practice" , "Routine - clothing" , "Acquired pattern of behaviour" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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