The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word AVOCATION
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
A
V
O
C
A
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More clues leading to the result AVOCATION
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "distraction" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case distraction = avocation.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 AVOCATION mean?
AVOCATION noun- A calling away; a diversion.
- A hobby or recreational or leisure pursuit.
- That which calls one away from one's regular employment or vocation.
- Pursuits; duties; affairs which occupy one's time; usual employment; vocation.
- The calling of a case from an inferior to a superior court.