Opinion lad adopts (5,2)

I believe the answer is:

takes on

'adopts' is the definition.
('take on' can be a synonym of 'adopt')

'opinion lad' is the wordplay.
'opinion' becomes 'take'.
'lad' becomes 'son'.
'take'+'son'='TAKES ON'

(Other definitions for takes on that I've seen before include "Accepts challenge" , "becomes upset" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app