Crossword Genius

Special use of language? It's often cutting (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

swordplay

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

'special use' is the definition.
'swordplay' can be an answer for 'use' (I have seen 'use of weapons' mean 'swordplay' so perhaps 'use' could also mean 'swordplay'). I'm not sure about the 'special' bit.

'language? it's often cutting' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'language?' could be 'word' (word is a kind of language) and 'word' is located in the answer.
The remaining letters 'splay' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for swordplay that I've seen before include "Fencer's skill" , "wounding ripostes?" , "Fencing skill" , "use of weapons" , "Brand management" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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