The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word LOANS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "advances" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case advances = loans.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 LOANS mean?
LOANS noun- An act or instance of lending, an act or instance of granting something for temporary use.
- A sum of money or other property that a natural or legal person borrows from another with the condition that it be returned or repaid over time or at a later date (sometimes with interest).
- The contract and array of legal or ethical obligations surrounding a loan.
- The permission to borrow any item.
- To lend (something) to (someone).
- A lonnen.