Thugs have to show affection (3)
I believe the answer is:
hug
'show affection' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
'thugs have' is the wordplay.
'have' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'HUG' is hidden within 'thugs'.
'to' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for hug that I've seen before include "Clasp" , "Cuddle" , "Bear-like embrace?" , "Embrace (like a bear?)" , "Tight embrace" .)
