Crossword Genius

Opens up to get extra points (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

widens

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

'opens up' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to change as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'get extra points' is the wordplay.
'get' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'extra' becomes 'wide' (cricket term).
'points' becomes 'Ns' (N is an example).
'wide' next to 'ns' is 'WIDENS'.

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for widens that I've seen before include "Expands" , "Gets broader" , "Dilates" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.