Cryptic crossword clue
Create difference, namely in refereeing scandal? 9

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
V
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Create difference" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case create difference = variegate.
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 VARIEGATE mean?

VARIEGATE verb
  1. To add variety to something.
  2. To change the appearance of something, especially by covering with patches or streaks of different colour.
  3. To dapple.
VARIEGATE adjective
  1. Variegated

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