Crossword Genius

Reluctance to proceed: code left to be cracked (4,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cold feet

'reluctance to proceed' is the definition.
(having cold feet means being reluctant)

'code left to be cracked' is the wordplay.
'to be cracked' indicates anagramming the letters.
'code'+'left'='codeleft'
'codeleft' anagrammed gives 'COLD FEET'.

(Other definitions for cold feet that I've seen before include "result of paddling in winter ?" , "Icy extremities for slang fear" , "You'd have them if you were afraid to proceed" , "Apprehension" , "You might have them if you're afraid to proceed" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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