Crossword Genius

Taking sides, asked the French to note essential framework (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

skeleton

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'essential framework' is the definition.
'skeleton' can be an answer for 'framework' (I've seen this before). I'm unsure of the 'essential' bit.

'taking sides asked the french to note' is the wordplay.
'taking sides' indicates the central letters (the letters at the sides are taken off).
'the french' becomes 'le' ('the' in French).
'note' becomes 'n' (abbreviation).
The central letters of 'asked' are 'ske'.
'ske'+'le'+'to'+'n'='SKELETON'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skeleton that I've seen before include "Framework (kept in the cupboard?)" , "set of bones?" , "- key; - staff" , "Bare bones" , "Framework of the body" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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