Cryptic crossword clue
They are forced into private service 10

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
O
N
S
C
R
I
P
T
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "They are forced into private service" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they are forced into private service = conscripts.
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 CONSCRIPTS mean?

CONSCRIPTS noun
  1. One who is compulsorily enrolled, often into a military service; a draftee.
CONSCRIPTS verb
  1. To enrol(l) compulsorily; to draft; to induct.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations