It's liquid, but methinks not writing fluid (5)

I believe the answer is:

meths

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

'it's liquid' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'methinks not writing fluid' is the wordplay.
'not' suggests deleting specific letters.
'writing fluid' becomes 'ink' (fluid used for writing).
'methinks' with 'ink' taken away is 'METHS'.

'but' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for meths that I've seen before include "Fuel" , "unsuitable alcohol" , "Violet-coloured alcohol" , "Methylated spirits (colloq.)" , "Spirit" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.