Crossword Genius

Showing weakness for first-rate fish (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ailing

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'showing weakness' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are present participle verbs, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

'first-rate fish' is the wordplay.
'first-rate' becomes 'ai' (resembles A1, informal term for excellent).
'fish' becomes 'ling' (ling is a kind of fish).
'ai'+'ling'='AILING'

'for' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ailing that I've seen before include "Ill" , "Troubled in mind or body" , "Infertile" , "not doing very well" , "In poor health" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
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