Crossword Genius

Tactic when love becomes a farce? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

play

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

'farce?' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'tactic when love becomes a' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'a' is present in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ply' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for play that I've seen before include "Scope - entertainment" , "Stage work" , "Drama - latitude - sport" , "Perform music" , "Drama; engage in games" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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