Cryptic crossword clue
Making excuses for party involved in cheating

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word CONDONING

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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The straight part
We know that "Making excuses for" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case making excuses for = condoning.
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 CONDONING mean?

CONDONING verb
  1. To forgive, excuse or overlook (something that is considered morally wrong, offensive, or generally disliked).
  2. To allow, accept or permit (something that is considered morally wrong, offensive, or generally disliked).
  3. To forgive (marital infidelity or other marital offense).

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