Reduce numbers allowed when in deep trouble (7)
I believe the answer is:
deplete
'reduce numbers' is the definition.
'deplete' can be an answer for 'reduce' (I've seen this before). I am unsure of the 'numbers' bit.
'allowed when in deep trouble' is the wordplay.
'allowed' becomes 'let' (to let is to allow or permit).
'when in' means one lot of letters goes inside another.
'trouble' indicates an anagram.
'deep' is an anagram of 'depe'.
'let' put inside 'depe' is 'DEPLETE'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for deplete that I've seen before include "Exhaust (stocks)" , "Reduce the quantity of (resources)" , "Reduce (stocks)" , "Empty, reduce, exhaust" , "Drain" .)