The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word PRISES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
P
R
I
S
E
S
More clues leading to the result PRISES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "American perhaps uses Jimmy" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case american perhaps uses jimmy = prises.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PRISES mean?
PRISES noun- The cost required to gain possession of something.
- The cost of an action or deed.
- Value; estimation; excellence; worth.
- An enterprise or adventure.
- That which is taken from another; something captured; a thing seized by force, stratagem, or superior power.
- Anything captured by a belligerent using the rights of war; especially, property captured at sea in virtue of the rights of war, as a vessel.
- An honour or reward striven for in a competitive contest; anything offered to be competed for, or as an inducement to, or reward of, effort.
- That which may be won by chance, as in a lottery.
- Anything worth striving for; a valuable possession held or in prospect.
- A contest for a reward; competition.
- A lever; a pry; also, the hold of a lever.