Crossword Genius

Tried working without energy or grime (4)

Ross

I think it could be either:

dust

dirt

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

'grime' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dirt that I've seen before include "'Mud, dust or grime (4)'" , "Earth; grime" , "Grime - or controversial retention tax" , "Obscenity" , "Grime - scandal" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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