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"Cut" a word for open and "box" a word for to get oneself within it.

I have "finished" the grid but I too am stuck with VEOTING and also another seemingly meaningless word at 18ac. Surely this means we've gone wrong somewhere?

The best I can do is cut = wound, but it's open so nothing at the front and UND is left. That boxes WIN (to get oneself).

Marcus beat me to it and his explanation is better.

My 18 A seems fine - it's got a different letter at 20 D, ie neither of the clashes. I didn't end up with Veoting - remember, the clashing letter can be replaced by a different one altogether. (The O is from 12 D, but 11 A would make it a T, I've got a third option).

I think Malone is right, all the clashes need a third letter.

32d can kick one's heels up if disheartened (4) ???L

Ga(mb)ol

Thanks muraria

Just to confirm there are 11 clashes to form the three-word phrase.
But my possible first 3 letters - all third choices - are: H, R/S and E.
My 1ac is a "Space Invader" - G????????Y.

Your three choices are correct. Remember the first line in the preamble - that helps enormously!