Crossword Genius

Dread losing face making a mistake (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

error

'a mistake' is the definition.
('error' can be a synonym of 'mistake')

'dread losing face' is the wordplay.
'dread' becomes 'terror' (I've seen this before).
'losing face' means to remove the first letter.
'terror' with its initial letter removed is 'ERROR'.

'making' is the link.

(Other definitions for error that I've seen before include "Mistake or mishap" , "Blunder, slip" , "Slip, mistake" , "Gaffe" , "Boo-boo" .)

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.