Crossword Genius

Telephone fault may mean a reporter missing it (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

deadline

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'it' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for deadline that I've seen before include "that shouldn't be missed?" , "Latest time for completion" , "Target time" , "Point in time when something must be completed" , "Cut-off point" .)

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