Crossword Genius

Something hard for a butcher to use? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

steel

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'use?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how one could define the other.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for steel that I've seen before include "Knife-sharpener" , "brace" , "Mixture of carbon and iron" , "Strength, determination" , "May be cold" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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