The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word SIDETRACKING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Creating distraction" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case creating distraction = sidetracking.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 SIDETRACKING mean?
SIDETRACKING verb- To divert (a locomotive or train) on to a lesser used track in order to allow other trains to pass.
- To divert or distract (someone) from a main issue or course of action with an alternate or less relevant topic or activity; or, to use deliberate trickery or sly wordplay when talking to (a person) in order to avoid discussion of a subject.
- To sideline; to push aside; to divert or distract from, reducing (something) to a secondary or subordinate position.
- To deviate briefly from the topic at hand.