Crossword Genius

Set off to remove conflict perhaps (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

defray

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'set off' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their base form, I don't see how one could define the other.

'remove conflict perhaps' is the wordplay.
'remove' becomes 'de' (I've seen this in other clues).
'conflict perhaps' becomes 'fray' (fray is a kind of conflict. I am not sure about the 'perhaps' bit.).
'de'+'fray'='DEFRAY'

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for defray that I've seen before include "Provide funds" , "Meet the costs of" , "Bear the expenses of" , "Pay, settle" , "Provide money to pay (a cost)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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