The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word TARTS
T
A
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More clues leading to the result TARTS
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "We cannot stay fully associated" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case we cannot stay fully associated = tarts.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 TARTS mean?
TARTS noun- A type of small open pie, or piece of pastry, containing jelly or conserve; a sort of fruit pie.
- A prostitute.
- By extension, any woman with loose sexual morals.
- To practice prostitution
- To practice promiscuous sex
- To dress garishly, ostentatiously, whorishly, or sluttily