The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word LOOPHOLES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
L
O
O
P
H
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "ways to escape" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case ways to escape = loopholes.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 LOOPHOLES mean?
LOOPHOLES noun- A slit in a castle wall; today, any similar window for shooting a ranged weapon or letting in light.
- A method of escape, especially an ambiguity or exception in a rule or law that can be exploited in order to avoid its effect.
- To prepare a building for defense by preparing slits or holes through which to fire on attackers
- To exploit (a law, etc.) by means of loopholes.