What does the cryptic crossword clue "Soldier near failing, consumed by pity (9)" mean?

The definition is "Soldier". The wordplay uses an anagram. anagram of NEAR (synonym="NEAR") + MERCY (synonym="pity") = MERCENARY; definition: "Soldier" The answer is MERCENARY.

Soldier near failing, consumed by pity (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29609 | 25 Across | 2025-02-04 flower

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