Crossword Genius

Shocking in respect to certain individuals (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

awesome

'shocking' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'respect to certain individuals' is the wordplay.
'respect' becomes 'awe' (I have seen 'Profound respect' mean 'awe' so perhaps 'respect' could also mean 'awe').
'to certain individuals' becomes 'some' (I've seen this in another clue).
'awe'+'some'='AWESOME'

'in' is the link.

(Other definitions for awesome that I've seen before include "Exceptionally good" , "Hugely impressive, creating fear and wonder" , "Dreadful; amazing" , "Inspiring fear/wonder" , "Extraordinary" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian, The Telegraph and The Globe and Mail.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app