The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word LASHING
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Making a dash" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case making a dash = lashing.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 LASHING mean?
LASHING verb- To strike with a lash; to whip or scourge with a lash, or with something like one.
- To strike forcibly and quickly, as with a lash; to beat, or beat upon, with a motion like that of a lash.
- To throw out with a jerk or quickly.
- To scold; or to satirize; to censure with severity.
- To ply the whip; to strike.
- To utter censure or sarcastic language.
- (of rain) To fall heavily, especially in the phrase lash down
- To bind with a rope, cord, thong, or chain, so as to fasten.
- Something used to tie something or lash it to something.
- (in the form "lashings of"): plenty of
- The act of one who, or that which, lashes; castigation; chastisement.