You can take the rest as mere fiction (3)

I believe the answer is:

lie

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

'fiction' is the definition.
(fiction can mean a lie or fabrication)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for lie that I've seen before include "Couch" , "A white one is considered harmless" , "Perjure" , "Disinformation" , "Recline - untruth" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app