key to
phrasal verb
keyed to; keying to; keys to
chiefly US
1
: to make (something) suitable for (a particular use or type of person)
I try to key my lectures to my audience.
—often used as (be) keyed toThe educational program is keyed to the needs of working women.
2
: to change (something) in a way that is closely related to (something else)
—usually used as (be) keyed to
The amount of money they receive is keyed to the rate of inflation.
Examples of key to in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
By Alexandra York and Zoya Hasan, Forbes Staff Resourcefulness, self-sufficiency and invention are the keys to success in today’s competitive business climate.
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Alexandra York, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
For McIlroy, remembering those real experiences, and particularly the displays of strength that came after them, is the key to sorting through the alarm bells that his brain is hardwired to provide.
—Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025
Parton is very clear that a major key to the park’s growth and success has been its employees.
—Devarrick Turner, USA Today, 12 Apr. 2025
While front porch lighting is important, the key to evening curb appeal means going beyond the doorway.
—Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Alexandra York, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
For McIlroy, remembering those real experiences, and particularly the displays of strength that came after them, is the key to sorting through the alarm bells that his brain is hardwired to provide.
—Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025
Parton is very clear that a major key to the park’s growth and success has been its employees.
—Devarrick Turner, USA Today, 12 Apr. 2025
While front porch lighting is important, the key to evening curb appeal means going beyond the doorway.
—Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for key to
Cite this Entry
“Key to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key%20to. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
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