Put on airs behind work counter (6)

I believe the answer is:

oppose

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'counter' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'put on airs behind work' is the wordplay.
'put on' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'airs' becomes 'pose' (synonyms).
'behind work' becomes 'op' (common abbreviation for 'opus'. I am not sure about the 'behind' bit.).
'pose' after 'op' is 'OPPOSE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for oppose that I've seen before include "Compete with" , "Counter" , "'Refute, stand against (6)'" , "Argue against" , "face" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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