The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word SIDESWIPE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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More clues leading to the result SIDESWIPE
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Passing criticism/punch not delivered head-on" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case passing criticism/punch not delivered head-on = sideswipe.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 SIDESWIPE mean?
SIDESWIPE noun- A blow with the side of something, such as the side of car that is changing lanes incautiously.
- A catty or sarcastic remark.
- To give a blow with the side, as to strike with the side of a car when turning.