The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word INTENSIVE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
I
N
T
E
N
S
I
V
E
More clues leading to the result INTENSIVE
- After trendy numbers the writer's becoming serious
- Playing tennis I have concentrated
- Popular numbers I have detailed
- 12 Detailed review of 90s’ verse
- One isn’t even odd total
- Reversing initial polarity of sensitive liquid produces concentrated solution
- Club tennis? I have to be serious?
- Concentrated in core of listeners’ riddle, say
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "serious" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case serious = intensive.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 INTENSIVE mean?
INTENSIVE noun- Form of a word with a stronger or more forceful sense than the root on which the intensive is built.
- Thorough; to a great degree; with intensity.
- Demanding; requiring a great amount of work etc.
- Highly concentrated.
- Stretched; allowing intension, or increase of degree; that can be intensified.
- Characterized by persistence; intent; assiduous.
- (grammar) Serving to give force or emphasis.
- Related to the need to manage life-threatening conditions by means of sophisticated life support and monitoring.