The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word SUBVERT
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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More clues leading to the result SUBVERT
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Confound expectations" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case confound expectations = subvert.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 SUBVERT mean?
SUBVERT verb- To overturn from the foundation; to overthrow; to ruin utterly.
- To pervert, as the mind, and turn it from the truth; to corrupt; to confound.
- To upturn convention from the foundation by undermining it (literally, to turn from beneath).
- An advertisement created by subvertising.