Crossword Genius

With water, there’s call to be economical (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sparing

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

'economical' is the definition.
('sparing' can be a synonym of 'economical')

'with water there's call' is the wordplay.
'with' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'water there' becomes 'spa' (I've seen this before. I am not sure about the 'there' bit.**).
'call' becomes 'ring' ('ring' can be a synonym of 'call').
'spa'+'ring' is 'SPARING'.

'to be' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sparing that I've seen before include "Thrifty" , "mean" , "Economical; having mercy" , "Moderate, economical" , "Scanty - merciful" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.