Crossword Genius

Small argument, formal (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stiff

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

'small argument' is the wordplay.
'small' becomes 's' (abbreviation - e.g. clothes size).
'argument' becomes 'tiff' (I've seen this before).
's'+'tiff'='STIFF'

(Other definitions for stiff that I've seen before include "Formal" , "Difficult" , "Firm" , "Frigid" , "Starched, rigid" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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.