Crossword Genius

Unfortunately a final ended early (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alas

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

'unfortunately' is the definition.
('alas' is used to express regret)

'a final ended early' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'a' is present in the answer.
The remaining letters 'las' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for alas that I've seen before include "Expression of grief or misfortune" , "Cry of woe" , "Interjection of sorrow" , "Oh dear!" , "Regretfully!" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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