Crossword Genius

Show how un-English is honest criticism (4,7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fair comment

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

'show how un-english' is the wordplay.
'show' becomes 'fair' (fair is a kind of show).
'how un-english' becomes 'comment' ('how' in French).
'fair'+'comment'='FAIR COMMENT'

'is' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for fair comment that I've seen before include "Nothing libellous" , "Honest criticism" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app