Crossword Genius

Neither severe nor bitter (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mild

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'bitter' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mild that I've seen before include "Calm" , "Gentle - bland" , "Clement -- type of beer" , "Gentle and moderate" , "Beer darker than bitter - not bitter" .)

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