The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word PARRYING
P
A
R
R
Y
I
N
G
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "turning aside" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case turning aside = parrying.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 PARRYING mean?
PARRYING verb- To avoid, deflect, or ward off (an attack, a blow, an argument, etc.).
- The act of one who parries.