Crossword Genius

Private soldier expressed bitterness (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rancour

'bitterness' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'private soldier expressed' is the wordplay.
'private soldier' becomes 'ranker' (I've seen this before).
'expressed' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue.
'ranker' is a homophone of 'RANCOUR'.

(Other definitions for rancour that I've seen before include "Bitter feeling or ill-will" , "Spite" , "Deep, bitter hate" , "Deep-seated bitterness" , "Bitter resentment" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app