Crossword Genius

A second or two is no big deal (5-4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

small-time

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

'no big deal' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'a second or two' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'a' is found in the answer.
'second' could be 'time' (time is a kind of second) and 'time' is found in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'is' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for small-time that I've seen before include "Of minor importance" , "Insignificant" , "Petty (criminal, usually)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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