Cryptic crossword clue
The French ‘tec originally in case 4

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word LEST

L
E
S
T

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

LEST conjunction
  1. For fear that; that not; in order to prevent something from happening; in case.
  2. (after certain expressions denoting fear or apprehension) that (without the negative particle; introduces the reason for an emotion.)

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