Crossword Genius

Sincere answer Hemingway accepts? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

earnest

'sincere' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'answer hemingway accepts?' is the wordplay.
'answer' becomes 'a' (abbreviation eg in Q and A).
'hemingway' becomes 'ernest' (synonyms).
'accepts?' indicates putting letters inside.
'a' going within 'ernest' is 'EARNEST'.

(Other definitions for earnest that I've seen before include "showing seriousness" , "Eastern (anag.)" , "Something of value to bind a contract" , "Showing sincere and intense conviction" , "promise" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.