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
Organization is key to a successful trip, and this compact cord storage case will make looking for a charger mid-flight or at your hotel so much easier.
—
Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
In all behavioral health responses, patience and understanding are key to better outcomes for patients, said Laurie Cox, the director of crisis services at Swope Health in Kansas City.
—Meg Cunningham, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2025
European defense stocks and bank sectors, which are key to the region’s market performance, are also less exposed to tariff wars, said Mark Mobius, chairman of Mobius Emerging Opportunities Fund.
—Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 8 July 2025
Arslanian underscored the flexibility and symmetry of the jewels, which is key to his artistic vision.
—Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 8 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
In all behavioral health responses, patience and understanding are key to better outcomes for patients, said Laurie Cox, the director of crisis services at Swope Health in Kansas City.
—Meg Cunningham, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2025
European defense stocks and bank sectors, which are key to the region’s market performance, are also less exposed to tariff wars, said Mark Mobius, chairman of Mobius Emerging Opportunities Fund.
—Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 8 July 2025
Arslanian underscored the flexibility and symmetry of the jewels, which is key to his artistic vision.
—Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 8 July 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 17 Jul. 2025.
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