Crossword Genius

Study directions altogether stupid (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dense

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'altogether stupid' is the definition.
'dense' can be an answer for 'stupid' (similar in meaning). I am not sure about the 'altogether' bit.

'study directions' is the wordplay.
'study' becomes 'den' (term for a study or office).
'directions' becomes 'se' (I've seen this in other clues).
'den'+'se'='DENSE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dense that I've seen before include "Thick as undergrowth may be" , "Closely compacted" , "Stupid, crowded together" , "Close-packed" , "Thick, compact or crowded" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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