Crossword Genius

Shovel to function in gardening (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

spadework

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'gardening' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'shovel to function' is the wordplay.
'shovel' becomes 'spade' (I've seen this before).
'to function' becomes 'work' ('work' can be a synonym of 'function').
'spade'+'work'='SPADEWORK'

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for spadework that I've seen before include "Routine preparations for an undertaking" , "Preparatory labour (in the garden?)" , "Arduous but necessary preparation" , "Routine preparation" , "Necessary preparation - digging?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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