Crossword Genius

Scrutiny of old French friend leading state (11)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

examination

'scrutiny' is the definition.
('examination' can be a synonym of 'scrutiny')

'old french friend leading state' is the wordplay.
'old' becomes 'ex'.
'french friend' becomes 'ami' (I've seen this before).
'leading' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'state' becomes 'nation' ('nation' can be a synonym of 'state'**).
'ex'+'ami'+'nation'='EXAMINATION'

'of' is the link.

(Other definitions for examination that I've seen before include "School test" , "Formal test" , "Test of proficiency" , "trial" , "Detailed inspection" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.