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
The key to conquering such a bold shade?
—
Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026
For most investors, striking a balance between opportunity and risk is the key to determining how much silver truly belongs in your portfolio.
—Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 2 Jan. 2026
So like other would-be social media stars — or big corporate AI for that matter — tapping into your data is key to his success.
—Manuel Mendoza, Dallas Morning News, 2 Jan. 2026
How to Prevent Future Stains on Marble Prevention is key to maintaining the beauty of marble.
—Barbara Bellesi Zito, Southern Living, 2 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026
For most investors, striking a balance between opportunity and risk is the key to determining how much silver truly belongs in your portfolio.
—Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 2 Jan. 2026
So like other would-be social media stars — or big corporate AI for that matter — tapping into your data is key to his success.
—Manuel Mendoza, Dallas Morning News, 2 Jan. 2026
How to Prevent Future Stains on Marble Prevention is key to maintaining the beauty of marble.
—Barbara Bellesi Zito, Southern Living, 2 Jan. 2026
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 7 Jan. 2026.
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