Cryptic crossword clue
Cutting back, setting cost for policeman? Not right 9

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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The straight part
We know that "Cutting back" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case cutting back = coppicing.
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 COPPICING mean?

COPPICING verb
  1. To manage (a wooded area) sustainably, as a coppice, by periodically cutting back woody plants to promote new growth.
  2. To sprout from the stump.
COPPICING noun
  1. The act of cutting back a woody plant to promote new growth.

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