The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word BRIBING
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "engaged in corrupt practice" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case engaged in corrupt practice = bribing.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 BRIBING mean?
BRIBING verb- To give a bribe to; specifically, to ask a person to do something, usually against his/her will, in exchange for some type of reward or relief from potential trouble.
- To gain by a bribe; to induce as by a bribe.
- Bribery.