Crossword Genius

Simple soul, thus (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

basic

'simple' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'soul thus' is the wordplay.
'soul' becomes 'ba' (term for the soul in ancient Egypt).
'thus' becomes 'sic' (synonyms).
'ba'+'sic'='BASIC'

(Other definitions for basic that I've seen before include "Forming a foundation" , "Fundamental; alkaline" , "Fundamental -- early computer language" , "Elemental" , "Straightforward" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sunday Times.
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