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 Shadow Of The Leader This is why accountability is the key to business success.
—
John Knotts, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Boyd’s health will be a key to the Cubs’ chances in October.
—Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2025
After decades of pre-baked congressional contests, when the success of one party or the other was virtually guaranteed, California has become a hotbed of competition; in recent years, the state — an afterthought in November balloting for president — has been key to control of the House.
—Mark Barabak, Mercury News, 19 July 2025
To avoid identification, the shooter even handed over his mobile phone and vehicle keys to his third accomplice, the department added.
—Melina Khan, USA Today, 18 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for key to
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John Knotts, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Boyd’s health will be a key to the Cubs’ chances in October.
—Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2025
After decades of pre-baked congressional contests, when the success of one party or the other was virtually guaranteed, California has become a hotbed of competition; in recent years, the state — an afterthought in November balloting for president — has been key to control of the House.
—Mark Barabak, Mercury News, 19 July 2025
To avoid identification, the shooter even handed over his mobile phone and vehicle keys to his third accomplice, the department added.
—Melina Khan, USA Today, 18 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 24 Jul. 2025.
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