Crossword Genius

Element of flight record on the way (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

step

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

'element of flight' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?

'record on the way' is the wordplay.
'record' becomes 'EP' (abbreviation for extended play record).
'on' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'the way' becomes 'st' (abbreviation for street).
'ep' after 'st' is 'STEP'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for step that I've seen before include "Abrupt change; pace" , "Single pace" , "'Stage, rung (4)'" , "A pace for pets" , "Section of flight" .)

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