Cryptic crossword clue
Failing to start sleeping, being clumsy 9

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
L
U
M
B
E
R
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N
G

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "being clumsy" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case being clumsy = lumbering.
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 LUMBERING mean?

LUMBERING noun
  1. The act of one who lumbers; heavy, clumsy movement.
  2. The business of felling trees for lumber.
LUMBERING adjective
  1. Clumsy or awkward.
  2. Heavy, slow and laborious; ponderous.

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