Crossword Genius

Cleaner to hearten lady? Quite the opposite (9)

Ross

I think it could be either:

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5

9

detergent

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'cleaner' is the definition.
(detergent is a kind of cleaner)

'hearten lady? quite the opposite' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'lady?' could be 'de' and 'de' is located in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for detergent that I've seen before include "Soluble cleanser" , "Synthetic cleaning substance for washing machines" , "help with the washing-up" , "Soapless cleanser" , "cleaner" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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