Cryptic crossword clue
Frequently trailing second note in set of bells is tone down 4-5

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word SOFT-PEDAL

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
O
F
T
-
P
E
D
A
L

Buddy explains!

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 SOFT-PEDAL mean?

SOFT-PEDAL verb
  1. To attempt to persuade without being obvious about it, by understating a position so the listener takes the good points as obvious.
  2. To tone down, damp, mute or obscure something; to proceed in a less forceful, circumspect or subdued manner.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations