Crossword Genius

Regrets a stratagem, by the sound of it (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rues

'regrets' is the definition.
('rue' can be a synonym of 'regret')

'a stratagem by the sound of it' is the wordplay.
'a stratagem' becomes 'ruse' (a ruse is a stratagem or ploy).
'by the sound of it' shows a homophone (sound like).
'ruse' is a homophone of 'RUES'.

(Other definitions for rues that I've seen before include "Is sorry for - plants" , "Regrets, to be sure" , "Bemoans" .)

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app