The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word PHRASE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
P
H
R
A
S
E
More clues leading to the result PHRASE
- Expression wears thin for listeners
- Group of words becomes strained, we hear
- He wraps out a few words
- Expression starts to lose its integrity when uttered
- Becomes strained when speaking a few words
- Expression becomes worn out in speech
- Couch wears out, we’re told
- Expression wears thin when spoken
- Literary group gets stressed reading aloud?
- Expression shows the effects of strain on air
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Expression" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case expression = phrase.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 PHRASE mean?
PHRASE noun- A short written or spoken expression.
- (grammar) A word or group of words that functions as a single unit in the syntax of a sentence, usually consisting of a head, or central word, and elaborating words.
- A small section of music in a larger piece.
- A mode or form of speech; diction; expression.
- To express (an action, thought or idea) by means of particular words.
- To perform a passage with the correct phrasing.
- To divide into melodic phrases.