Crossword Genius

Reduce the amount in order to create an impression (3,1,6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cut a figure

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'reduce the amount in order' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'create an impression' is the wordplay.
'create' becomes 'cut' (cutting is a kind of creating).
'an' becomes 'a'.
'impression' becomes 'figure' (figure is a kind of impression).
'cut'+'a'+'figure'='CUT A FIGURE'

'to' acts as a link.

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I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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