Without excess: in this way, live right (5)

I believe the answer is:

sober

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'without excess' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'this way live right' is the wordplay.
'this way' becomes 'so' (I've seen this in other clues).
'live' becomes 'be' (synonyms).
'right' becomes 'r' (abbreviation).
'so'+'be'+'r'='SOBER'

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sober that I've seen before include "Judge said to be so" , "Unaffected by drink" , "Sedate - staid" , "Serious; muted in colour" , "Dignified -- lacking colour" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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