Crossword Genius

Was inclined to absorb one basic subject? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

learnt

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'basic subject?' is the definition.
The answer and definition are different parts of speech. However, past participle verbs and adjectives can sometimes define each other.

'was inclined to absorb one' is the wordplay.
'was inclined' becomes 'leant' (I've seen this before).
'to absorb' indicates putting letters inside.
'one' becomes 'r' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'leant' going around 'r' is 'LEARNT'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for learnt that I've seen before include "Aquired knowledge or skill" , "Acquired knowledge or skill" , "Gained knowledge of rental" , "informed" , "Found out" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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