Cryptic crossword clue
Back-pedalling, I turn into runner, say — smash! 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word PULVERISE

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "smash" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case smash = pulverise.
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 PULVERISE mean?

PULVERISE verb
  1. To render into dust or powder.
  2. To completely destroy, especially by crushing to fragments or a powder.
  3. To defeat soundly, thrash.
  4. To become reduced to powder; to fall to dust.

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