key to
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
But making their wishes known ahead of time is key to maintaining independence even as life situations change, said Kweli Rashied-Henry, interim director of Fulton County Senior Services.
—
Rachel Brown Kirkland,
AJC.com,
2 July 2026
Short hemlines and heels that match your skin tone are the key to longer-looking legs, and mini skirts like this skort from Senserise are a great way to try out the style without breaking the bank.
—
Sophie Dodd,
Travel + Leisure,
1 July 2026
Still, the Partnership has maintained that state workers are key to downtown’s identity.
—
Sacbee.com,
1 July 2026
Breathwork and a strong mind-body connection are key to the Barre3 workout.
—
Hannah Harper,
Health,
1 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Rachel Brown Kirkland,
AJC.com,
2 July 2026
Short hemlines and heels that match your skin tone are the key to longer-looking legs, and mini skirts like this skort from Senserise are a great way to try out the style without breaking the bank.
—
Sophie Dodd,
Travel + Leisure,
1 July 2026
Still, the Partnership has maintained that state workers are key to downtown’s identity.
—
Sacbee.com,
1 July 2026
Breathwork and a strong mind-body connection are key to the Barre3 workout.
—
Hannah Harper,
Health,
1 July 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 5 Jul. 2026.
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