Not many can be heard to express relief! (3)

I believe the answer is:

few

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'not many' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for few that I've seen before include "Considerable number, ironically" , "Indefinite small amount" , "Only one or two" , "'''Many are called but ... are chosen'' (Bible) (3)'" , "Indefinite but small number" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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