The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word PROVISORY
P
R
O
V
I
S
O
R
Y
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "N" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case n = provisory.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 PROVISORY mean?
PROVISORY adjective- Containing a proviso.
- Dependent on a proviso or condition.
- Temporary; pending something more permanent.