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key

When used as a noun to describe a solution, "key" is almost always followed by the preposition "to" (e.g., "the key to success"), not "of". As an adjective, "key" is very common in professional and business settings to highlight the most important part of a plan or team. When used as a verb meaning to enter data, it is often paired with the word "in" (e.g., "key in the password").

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is at the office and Karen is at home.
Karen Smith

Did you snag the spare key? I'm locked out of the garage.

Karen Smith
David Smith
David Smith

My bad. I'll swing by and drop it off after my sync.

💡
Karen is stressed about being locked out, while David uses corporate jargon ('sync' for a meeting) to describe his schedule, reflecting their established personas. 'Snag' is used as natural slang for 'grab' or 'take'.

Meanings

noun

A small piece of shaped metal used to operate a lock.

"I can't find the house key in my bag."

noun

A button on a keyboard or piano that produces a specific character or note.

"Press the Enter key to submit the form."

noun

The crucial element or solution needed to achieve a certain result.

"Hard work is often the key to success."

adjective

Of paramount importance; critical.

"She played a key role in the negotiations."

verb (transitive)

To enter data into a computer using a keyboard.

"The clerk will key the information into the database."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error