The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word CALCULATE
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
C
A
L
C
U
L
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More clues leading to the result CALCULATE
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The straight part
We know that "figure" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case figure = calculate.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 CALCULATE mean?
CALCULATE verb- To determine the value of something or the solution to something by a mathematical process.
- To determine values or solutions by a mathematical process; reckon.
- To plan; to expect; to think.
- To ascertain or predict by mathematical or astrological computations the time, circumstances, or other conditions of; to forecast or compute the character or consequences of.
- To adjust for purpose; to adapt by forethought or calculation; to fit or prepare by the adaptation of means to an end.