Crossword Genius

Spring right? Call spouse for training assistant! (8,7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sparring partner

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'training assistant' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'spring right? call spouse' is the wordplay.
'spring' becomes 'spa' (spa can mean a mineral spring).
'right?' becomes 'r' (common abbreviation).
'call' becomes 'ring' (synonyms).
'spouse' becomes 'partner' (synonyms).
'spa'+'r'+'ring'+'partner'='SPARRING PARTNER'

'for' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sparring partner that I've seen before include "jabber" , "Argumentative friend" , "What a boxer needs" , "Boxer's opponent during training" , "hits rehearsed with me?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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.