Crossword Genius

Paper in mass cut back (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

exam

'paper' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'mass cut back' is the wordplay.
'mass' becomes 'm' (symbol used in Physics e.g. f=ma).
'cut' becomes 'axe' (both can mean to cancel or remove).
'back' is a reversal indicator.
'm'+'axe'='maxe'
'maxe' reversed gives 'EXAM'.

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for exam that I've seen before include "Oral maybe" , "Set of questions evaluating skill or knowledge, in short" , "School test (colloq.)" , "'Test, in short (4)'" , "Written test" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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.