What does the cryptic crossword clue "Unqualified, sadly bales out (8)" mean?

The definition is "out". The wordplay uses an anagram. anagram of BALES + OUT = ABSOLUTE; definition: "Unqualified," The answer is ABSOLUTE.

Unqualified, sadly bales out (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29483 | 16 Down | 2024-09-09 flower