Crossword Genius

Small state broadcaster likely to fail (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

risky

'likely to fail' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'small state broadcaster' is the wordplay.
'small state' becomes 'RI' (Rhode Island is the smallest state in the USA).
'broadcaster' becomes 'sky' (Sky is a broadcast TV channel).
'ri'+'sky'='RISKY'

(Other definitions for risky that I've seen before include "Having possibility of danger or loss" , "too adventurous" , "Hazardous" , "Chancy" , "taking a chance" .)

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