Crossword Genius

Opposing everything, to no avail (3,7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

for nothing

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

'opposing' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'everything to no avail' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'to' could be 'for' and 'for' is found in the answer.
'no' could be 'nothing' (synonyms) and 'nothing' is found within the answer.
This accounts for all the letters.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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