Crossword Genius

Swearwords yet to be released when trapped by friendly fire? (8-5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

blankety-blank

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

'released when trapped by friendly fire?' is the definition.
The answer and definition are different parts of speech. However, past participle verbs and adjectives occasionally define each other.

'swearwords yet' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
an anagram of 'yet' is 'ety' which is present in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'to be' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for blankety-blank that I've seen before include "Euphemism for taboo words" , "Euphemism for swearing - old TV programme" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app