Crossword Genius

Game's up for contraceptive (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

loop

'contraceptive' is the definition.
(type of intrauterine device)

'game's up' is the wordplay.
'game' becomes 'pool' (pool is a kind of game).
'up' says the letters should be written backwards (in down clue: letters go upwards).
'pool' in reverse letter order is 'LOOP'.

'for' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for loop that I've seen before include "Oval or U-shaped coil or bend" , "not informed one's out of it" , "flying stunt" , "Closed circuit eg as hearing aid" , "Complete circuit; encircle" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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