The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word REMIT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
R
E
M
I
T
More clues leading to the result REMIT
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Forward/terms of reference" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case forward/terms of reference = remit.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 REMIT mean?
REMIT noun- Terms of reference; set of responsibilities; scope.
- A communication from a superior court to a subordinate court.
- To transmit or send (e.g. money in payment); to supply.
- To forgive, pardon (a wrong, offence, etc.).
- To refrain from exacting or enforcing.
- To give up; omit; cease doing.
- To allow (something) to slacken, to relax (one's attention etc.).
- To show a lessening or abatement (of a specified quality).
- To diminish, abate.
- To refer (something or someone) for deliberation, judgment, etc. (to a particular body or person).
- To send back.
- To give or deliver up; surrender; resign.
- To restore or replace.
- To postpone.
- To refer (someone to something), direct someone's attention to something.