The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word EXTORTIONATE
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The straight part
We know that "oppressive" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case oppressive = extortionate.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 EXTORTIONATE mean?
EXTORTIONATE adjective- Of, related to or typifying extortion.
- Greatly exceeding what is reasonable or moderate; exorbitant.