The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 plus 4 letter word RUN DOWN
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
R
U
N
D
O
W
N
More clues leading to the result RUN DOWN
- Sad after race, gradually deteriorate
- Criticise superior in service? That takes neck!
- Lacking energy and listing
- Disparage cricket score, reduced
- Disparage weak summary
- Manage part of province in need of regeneration?
- Hit by a vehicle — and not cared for
- Treat with contempt as showing signs of exhaustion
- Shabby ski slope?
- Summary in a poor state
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Criticise" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case criticise = run down.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 RUN DOWN mean?
RUN DOWN adjective- (of a person) Tired and exhausted.
- (of a place) Decrepit.
- (of a clockwork mechanism) Having the spring unwound.