Crossword Genius

She can turn alarming occasionally (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

girl

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'she' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'turn alarming occasionally' is the wordplay.
'turn' is a reversal indicator.
'occasionally' indicates alternate letters (letters taken at regular intervals or occasions).
The alternating letters of 'alarming' are 'lrig'.
'lrig' backwards is 'GIRL'.

'can' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for girl that I've seen before include "Miss" , "Lass" , "Female child" , "Lassie" , "Maid" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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