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
Here are three keys to Saturday’s game.
—
Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 27 Dec. 2025
Fyy Travel Cable Organizer Pouch 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, 26 Dec. 2025
Healthy sleep habits, such as keeping a regular schedule, minimizing evening screen time, and following a relaxing bedtime routine, are the key to better sleep.
—Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 26 Dec. 2025
Before Getting Started The key to removing a bathtub ring without damaging the material of your tub is knowing what it's made of.
—Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for key to
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Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 27 Dec. 2025
Fyy Travel Cable Organizer Pouch 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, 26 Dec. 2025
Healthy sleep habits, such as keeping a regular schedule, minimizing evening screen time, and following a relaxing bedtime routine, are the key to better sleep.
—Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 26 Dec. 2025
Before Getting Started The key to removing a bathtub ring without damaging the material of your tub is knowing what it's made of.
—Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 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 1 Jan. 2026.
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