Cryptic crossword clue
Reform overdue after fellow pulled the strings 10

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word MANOEUVRED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "pulled the strings" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case pulled the strings = manoeuvred.
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 MANOEUVRED mean?

MANOEUVRED verb
  1. To move (something, or oneself) carefully, and often with difficulty, into a certain position.
  2. To guide, steer, manage purposefully
  3. To intrigue, manipulate, plot, scheme

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