The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word APOLOGY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
A
P
O
L
O
G
Y
More clues leading to the result APOLOGY
- A game, extremely grubby, leads to expression of regret
- A defensive mistake admitted by college in regretful explanation
- A game chap lacks heart for defence
- Sorry expression from chap disheartened after a game
- Excuse a traveller with empty gypsy
- A sport having good, variable defence
- Defence in a game good, leading to victory finally
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "expression of regret" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case expression of regret = apology.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 APOLOGY mean?
APOLOGY noun- An expression of remorse or regret for having said or done something that harmed another: an instance of apologizing (saying that one is sorry).
- A formal justification, defence.
- Anything provided as a substitute; a makeshift.