Reading Theme:
Key: Meanings, Usage & Examples (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：key (metal tool) (Key)
Key
/kiː/
n., adj.
A small piece of metal used to open or lock a door, car, or other lock.
key (metal tool)
➕
/kiː/
n., adj.
A small piece of metal with notches used to open or lock a door, car, or other lock.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'cæg', possibly related to 'cǣg' meaning 'small metal piece for locking'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think: a key unlocks doors; the 'key' factor unlocks success. Remember the shape: a shaft and bow.
📖 Example
I can't find my key, so I'm waiting outside my apartment for my roommate to come home.
I can't find my key, so I'm waiting outside my apartment for my roommate to come home.
🔗 Collocations
house key – house key
spare key – spare key
key ring – key ring
🔄 Synonyms
master key (n.) – A key that can open many different locks.
keycard (n.) – A plastic card used instead of a key to open electronic locks.
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Keys have symbolized access and power since ancient times. In modern culture, 'the key to success' is a common metaphor, reflecting how a small object can unlock great potential.
Meaning 2：key factor (Key)
Key
/kiː/
n., adj.
The most important thing or factor that decides if something will be successful.
key factor
➕
/kiː/
n., adj.
The most important thing or factor that determines whether something succeeds or fails.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Regular practice is the key to improving your language skills.
Regular practice is the key to improving your language skills.
🔗 Collocations
key to success – key to success
key factor – key factor
key element – key element
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
minor (adj.) – Less important; small in significance.
Meaning 3：key (important) (Key)
Key
/kiː/
n., adj.
Extremely important and necessary for success.
key (important)
➕
/kiː/
n., adj.
Extremely important and necessary for success; referring to a person or thing that is indispensable.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
She is a key member of our project team, and we really need her expertise.
She is a key member of our project team, and we really need her expertise.
🔗 Collocations
key player – key player
key role – key role
key component – key component
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
unimportant (adj.) – Not significant; trivial.
🌱 Derivatives
keynote (n.) – The main or central theme, often a speech.
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