key to

noun
UK: /ˈkiː tuː/
US: /ˈkiː tuː/

  1. Essential element or factor for achieving something.

    1. Honesty is the key to good friendship. [ ] [ ]
    2. Hard work and dedication are the key to success in any field; you must remember that. [ ] [ ]

  2. Providing access or understanding something.

    1. This key to the front door is yours. [ ] [ ]
    2. The new software update holds the key to improving the system's overall performance. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

crucial essential vital fundamental important
key to adjective

  1. Crucial or essential for achieving a particular outcome.

    1. Practice is key to improving skills. [ ] [ ]
    2. Patience is key to resolving conflicts peacefully; it always helps everyone relax. [ ] [ ]
key to idiom

  1. To be crucial or essential for.

    1. Teamwork is key to success. [ ] [ ]
    2. Communication is key to building healthy relationships, so be open. [ ] [ ]
key to preposition

  1. Essential for success or understanding.

    1. The right tools are key to any job. [ ] [ ]
    2. A positive attitude is key to overcoming challenges, and helps keep you focused. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "key to" in English means: Essential element or factor for achieving something., Providing access or understanding something..

The phonetic transcription of "key to" is /ˈkiː tuː/ in British English and /ˈkiː tuː/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "key to": crucial, essential, vital, fundamental, important.

Example usage of "key to": "Honesty is the key to good friendship.". More examples on the page.