in key

Idioms

In harmony with other factors, in a matching style, as in This furniture is perfectly in key with the overall design. This term uses key in the musical sense, that is, “a scheme of notes related to one another.” The antonym, out of key, means “not in harmony with other factors,” or “unsuitable,” as in He is out of key with his time. [c. 1900]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Firms were also much more upbeat about the year ahead, with confidence rising to the highest since mid-2024,” said Fiddes, citing expectations that global demand will continue to push up sales in key sectors such as technology and autos.

From The Wall Street Journal

Europe's biggest economy has faced a storm of problems in recent years, from a manufacturing slump and fierce competition from China to weak demand in key export markets and high energy prices.

From Barron's

The plan, which also includes a ban on the use of mobile phones in key government buildings, is expected to be submitted to Takaichi next week, the Asahi Shimbun and other local media reported.

From Barron's

Selig previously told Barron’s in a statement: “Several employees left before my tenure, but we have appropriate resources throughout the country. And while we regulate activity across the country, we don’t have offices in every state. Regulatory agencies don’t operate like Starbucks. Most of our attorneys are at headquarters in Washington, with some employees in regional offices. We are always looking to add talent in key areas, and the door is open for those who want to join a great organization.”

From Barron's

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023