Cryptic crossword clue
Beat black and blue, or get beaten around the head in assault? 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word BELABOUR

I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
B
E
L
A
B
O
U
R


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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 BELABOUR mean?

BELABOUR verb
  1. To labour about; labour over; work hard upon; ply diligently.
  2. To beat soundly; thump; beat someone.
  3. To attack someone verbally.
  4. To discuss something repeatedly; to harp on.

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