Cryptic crossword clue
Errant mate returned to confess 7

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word LAPSING

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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The straight part
We know that "Errant" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case errant = lapsing.
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 LAPSING mean?

LAPSING verb
  1. To fall away gradually; to subside.
  2. To fall into error or heresy.
  3. To slip into a bad habit that one is trying to avoid.
  4. To become void.
  5. To fall or pass from one proprietor to another, or from the original destination, by the omission, negligence, or failure of somebody, such as a patron or legatee.
LAPSING noun
  1. The act or process by which something lapses.

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