The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word PASSIVE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
P
A
S
S
I
V
E
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "not active" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case not active = passive.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 PASSIVE mean?
PASSIVE noun- (grammar) The passive voice of verbs.
- (grammar) A form of a verb that is in the passive voice.
- A customer who is satisfied with a product or service, but not keen enough to promote it by word of mouth.
- Any component that consumes but does not produce energy, or is incapable of power gain.
- Being subjected to an action without producing a reaction.
- Taking no action.
- (grammar) Being in the passive voice.
- Being inactive and submissive in a relationship, especially in a sexual one.
- Not participating in management.
- Without motive power.
- Of a component: that consumes but does not produce energy, or is incapable of power gain.