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 Riverside’s dominance was Lorch’s vast financial resources.
—
Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2025
As early as the 1980s, economists have framed circularity as a key to unlocking sustainable development.
—Justin Worland, Time, 17 Oct. 2025
The key to using this phrase effectively is authenticity.
—Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025
However, microfiber cloths require regular maintenance to work effectively; cleaning them regularly and properly is the key to their longevity.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2025
As early as the 1980s, economists have framed circularity as a key to unlocking sustainable development.
—Justin Worland, Time, 17 Oct. 2025
The key to using this phrase effectively is authenticity.
—Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025
However, microfiber cloths require regular maintenance to work effectively; cleaning them regularly and properly is the key to their longevity.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Oct. 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 21 Oct. 2025.
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