Defender to shoot - this is the result of bad timing Crossword Clue

The clue for today's The Irish News Cryptic crossword Puzzle is mentioned hereby: "Defender to shoot - this is the result of bad timing", we have found possible solution below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

Today's crossword clue, "Defender to shoot - this is the result of bad timing," leads us to the answer "BACKFIRE." Let's break down why this clue corresponds to this specific answer:

• Defender to Shoot: Here, "defender" suggests someone or something that is safeguarding against an attack or danger. When this entity "shoots," it implies taking action or reacting.
• Result of Bad Timing: The phrase "result of bad timing" indicates an outcome that was not as intended due to poor timing or synchronization of events.
• Backfire: Bringing these elements together, "backfire" fits perfectly as the answer. In this context, it represents a situation where an intended action by a defender or protector ends up causing harm or working against the initial purpose due to mistimed execution.

Therefore, "BACKFIRE" is the most fitting answer for this clue, aligning with the idea of a defensive action leading to an unintended harmful outcome due to mistiming or miscalculation.

Definition of "BACKFIRE"

(of a vehicle or its engine) undergo a mistimed explosion in the cylinder or exhaust

Example :

a car backfired in the road and shoppers ducked instinctively

overzealous publicity backfired on her

once the engine is running smoothly, a backfire can be dramatic

 The Crossword clue "Defender to shoot - this is the result of bad timing" published 2 time/s & has 1 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
The Irish News Cryptic	29 December 2021	BACKFIRE
The Irish Independent Cryptic	18 September 2018	BACKFIRE