Crossword Genius

Say why lover no longer unattractive? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

explain

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'say why' is the definition.
'explain' can be an answer for 'say' (explaining is a kind of saying). I am not sure about the 'why' bit.

'lover no longer unattractive?' is the wordplay.
'lover no longer' becomes 'ex' (ex-lover).
'unattractive?' becomes 'plain' ('plain' can be similar in meaning to 'unattractive').
'ex'+'plain'='EXPLAIN'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for explain that I've seen before include "Show the meaning of, make clear" , "Justify" , "Expound" , "Spell out" , "Defend" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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