Crossword Genius

Three seconds to illustrate problem on green? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

moss

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'illustrate problem on green?' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'three seconds' is the wordplay.
'three seconds' means three replacements for 'second'.
'second' becomes 'mo' (both are short periods of time).
'second' becomes 's' (common abbreviation).
'second' becomes 's' (common abbreviation).
'mo'+'s'+'s'='MOSS'

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for moss that I've seen before include "What's not found on a rolling stone" , "Low-growing plant" , "Small flowerless plant(s)" , "Stirling or Kate?" , "Small flowerless green plant without proper roots" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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