Cryptic crossword clue
Detained three lads on a regular basis 4

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word HELD

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
H
E
L
D

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Detained" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case detained = held.
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 HELD mean?

HELD verb
  1. To grasp or grip.
  2. To contain or store.
  3. (heading) To maintain or keep to a position or state.
  4. (heading) To maintain or keep to particular opinions, promises, actions.
  5. To win one's own service game.
  6. To take place, to occur.
  7. To organise an event or meeting (usually in passive voice).
  8. To derive right or title.
  9. In a food or drink order at an informal restaurant etc., requesting that a component normally included in that order be omitted.
  10. To be in possession of illicit drugs for sale.

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