The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word STRICTURE
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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More clues leading to the result STRICTURE
- Adverse criticism is harsh and, from time to time, guarded
- Rigorous about pursuing unionist’s criticism
- Scrupulous about supporting university criticism
- Criticism of framework, with university going for independence
- Criticism certain to include being reportedly misled
- Trials halved with court bound by certain constraint
- Severe criticism from building island for university
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Adverse criticism" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case adverse criticism = stricture.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 STRICTURE mean?
STRICTURE noun- (usually in plural) a rule restricting behaviour or action
- A general state of restrictiveness on behavior, action, or ideology
- A sternly critical remark or review
- Abnormal narrowing of a canal or duct in the body
- Strictness
- A stroke; a glance; a touch
- The degree of contact, in consonants