What does the cryptic crossword clue "Justification to restrict beer (9)" mean?

The definition is "beer". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). RATION (synonym of "restrict") + ALE (synonym of "beer"); definition: "Justification" The answer is RATIONALE.

Justification to restrict beer (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29194 | 22 Across | 2023-10-06 flower

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