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 to
The 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
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The key to the makeup’s longevity was a custom green primer made by Stoneman that was applied at the top of the typically two-hour-and-15-minute makeup process each day. Brande Victorian, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Feb. 2025 The key to successful green drenching is mixing leaf colors, textures, and plant shapes. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Feb. 2025 The key to a great view is a dark location away from city lights and clear skies. Daisy Dobrijevic, Space.com, 13 Feb. 2025 Therefore, the key to maximizing bioavailability is a drug’s formulation, which affects how well it is absorbed, distributed, and utilized by the body. Paul McClure 13, New Atlas, 13 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for key to 

Dictionary Entries Near key to

Cite this Entry

“Key to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key%20to. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.

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