Crossword Genius

Try to hear leading characters in South Africa? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

essay

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

'try' is the definition.
(essay can mean to try or attempt something)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for essay that I've seen before include "Analytic or interpretive literary composition (5_" , "Thesis" , "Test" , "School composition" , "Have a shot at a written piece" .)

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