I t was clear enough NAC. but as discussed earlier, the brain can become bewildered after a hefty slog of some tricky clues. I believe that Matakari just couldn't see the wood for the tree's (so to speak)
Matakari, If and when you get time. This is a very worthwhile page to read through (very lengthy with all the extra links) But it explains different 'INDICATORS' A must know for anyone who attempts cryptic crosswords. Have a look at the green highligted segments for diffent types of indicators. Once installed in the old grey matter, These words start to jump out at you when solving clues. They direct you to what you should be looking for. Hope this helps :-)
Ps. This is not a crossword help forum. It is a guide on how to solve. (Which I'm not saying you need. But you may learn something new. I did when I came across it.)
https://www.crosswordunclued.com/2008/09/dictionary.html