Cryptic crossword clue
Change the rhythm, modifying pacy notes

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

I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Change the rhythm" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case change the rhythm = syncopate.
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 SYNCOPATE mean?

SYNCOPATE verb
  1. To omit a vocalic or consonantal sound or a syllable from a word; to use syncope
  2. To stress or accentuate the weak beat of a rhythm; to use syncopation

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