Crossword Genius

This automatically works for the better (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tote

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

'this automatically works' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'for the better' is the wordplay.
'for' becomes 'to' (eg both can mean 'in the opinion of').
'the better' becomes 'te' (I can't justify this - if you can you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'to'+'te'='TOTE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tote that I've seen before include "record of stakeholders' investments" , "move" , "Carry - betting system" , "Carry (a gun)" , "system that could be for the better" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
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.