Crossword Genius

Breaking linnet egg is irresponsible (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

negligent

'irresponsible' is the definition.

'breaking linnet egg' is the wordplay.
'breaking' indicates anagramming the letters.
'linnet'+'egg'='linnetegg'
'linnetegg' is an anagram of 'NEGLIGENT'.

'is' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for negligent that I've seen before include "sloppy" , "Careless, remiss" , "slack" , "Not taking due care" , "Lax" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app