Crossword Genius

You can make it hot for somebody (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tea

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

'you can' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'it hot for somebody' is the wordplay.
'it' becomes 't' (abbreviation. e.g. in 'tis).
'hot for somebody' becomes 'ea' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
't'+'ea'='TEA'

'make' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tea that I've seen before include "Plantation product" , "bush" , "Light afternoon repast" , "Beverage; meal" , "leaves much to be desired?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app