The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word SIGNALISE
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The straight part
We know that "Indicate distinctly" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case indicate distinctly = signalise.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 SIGNALISE mean?
SIGNALISE verb- To distinguish, to make noteworthy.
- To display or make known (a quality, attribute etc.); to call attention to.
- To point out; to take special note of.
- To communicate with by means of a signal.
- To indicate; to be a sign of.
- To furnish (a traffic intersection) with a traffic signal.