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11d: replace d with sk in the synonym for ‘search for partners’.

Likewise Ruby; I can't parse 11d either (even though I have the answer). Everyone else is saying how brilliant it is, so I'm feeling a bit dense for not getting it.

Oh, thanks Mathi, I missed seeing your post before I posted. I get it now, but I didn't know those abbreviations for Slovakia and Germany.

When in doubt, always look up the Chambers dictionary. It is the default standard for these abbreviations.

I enjoyed this one too. Finished by 4 o'clock which is good for me as I don't start till after lunch. Particularly liked 11d and 24a..Thanks Marti for explaining base e - that had eluded me.

Thanks Yevrah and Mathi. Now solved.

Sorry, Mathi not Marti.

Hi, can anyone help me parse 18d? I have the answer meaning rank, & the last 4 letters as Musk, perhaps, but no idea why the first 3 letters fit with the rest of the clue. Thanks.

Hi tttt5,

18d - "essentially" nearly always means the 'heart' or 'central' part of the following or preceding words - so just take the centre letter from each of the preceding three words followed by Mr Musk.

Of course!