Crossword Genius

Two simultaneously for instance? (2,1,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

at a time

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

'two simultaneously' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'instance?' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'instance?' could be 'time' (time is a kind of instance) and 'time' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'ata' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'for' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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