Crossword Genius

One doesn't succeed in close race (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

loser

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

'one doesn't succeed' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'in close race' is the wordplay.
'in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'LOSER' can be found hidden inside 'close race'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for loser that I've seen before include "One who is habitually unsuccessful" , "Defeated person" , "Someone who fails consistently" , "lemon" , "One who is (always) unsuccessful" .)

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