Crossword Genius

Small step in the final frontier (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

space

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'the final frontier' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both shapes as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'small step' is the wordplay.
'small' becomes 's' (abbreviation - e.g. clothes size).
'step' becomes 'pace' (synonyms).
's'+'pace'='SPACE'

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for space that I've seen before include "Room for capes" , "Expanse" , "Interstellar vacuum" , "A particular area for paces" , "sci-fi theme" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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