The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word MEDIATES
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More clues leading to the result MEDIATES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "tries to make things work" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case tries to make things work = mediates.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 MEDIATES mean?
MEDIATES verb- To resolve differences, or to bring about a settlement, between conflicting parties.
- To intervene between conflicting parties in order to resolve differences or bring about a settlement.
- To divide into two equal parts.
- To act as an intermediary causal or communicative agent; to convey.
- To act as a spiritualistic medium.