Crossword Genius

The timekeeper not in so be careful (5,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

watch out

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'be careful' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'the timekeeper not in' is the wordplay.
'the timekeeper' becomes 'watch' (watch is a kind of timekeeper).
'not in' becomes 'out' ('out' is the opposite to 'in').
'watch'+'out'='WATCH-OUT'

'so' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for watch out that I've seen before include "this could make synchronisation difficult!" , "Be vigilant" , "Be careful!" .)

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