What does the cryptic crossword clue "American, as it happens, is quick (5)" mean?

The definition is "quick". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). A (synonym of "American,") + LIVE (synonym of "happens,"); definition: "quick" The answer is ALIVE.

American, as it happens, is quick (5)

Guardian Cryptic #29103 | 26 Across | 2023-06-22 flower

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