Crossword Genius

To the Poles, a substantial amount (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tons

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'a substantial amount' is the definition.
'tons' can be an answer for 'amount' (tons is a kind of amount). I am unsure of the 'a substantial' bit.

'to the poles' is the wordplay.
'the poles' becomes 'NS' (North and South poles).
'to'+'ns'='TONS'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tons that I've seen before include "Loads (sl.)" , "Each is equivalent to 2240 pounds" , "A lot" , "Lots" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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