Crossword Genius

A criticism coming up for soldier (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

para

'for soldier' is the definition.
(paratrooper)

'a criticism coming up' is the wordplay.
'criticism' becomes 'rap' (as in taking the rap for a mistake).
'coming up' says the letters should be written backwards (in a down clue, letters go up).
'a'+'rap'='arap'
'arap' back-to-front is 'PARA'.

(Other definitions for para that I've seen before include "Soldier (shortened)" , "Air-drop soldier" , "Brazilian state" , "Soldier that jumps from planes" , "High-jumper" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.