Cryptic crossword clue
Mostly worry about it escalating, could start becoming combative 9

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

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "combative" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case combative = agonistic.
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 AGONISTIC mean?

AGONISTIC adjective
  1. Of or relating to contests that were originally participated in by the Ancient Greeks; athletic
  2. Characterised by conflict or hostility
  3. Argumentative; combative
  4. Struggling to achieve an effect; strained and contrived.
  5. (pharmaceutical effect) pertaining to an agonist

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