Phrasal verbs "key in" vs "key to"

Differences between key in and key to

Key in means to enter information into a computer or electronic device, while key to means essential or crucial for achieving something.

Meanings and Definitions: key in vs key to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Key in

  • 1Enter numbers or information into a computer or electronic system.

    It took me ages to KEY IN all the information into the database.

Key to

  • 1Plan things to fit or suit people or situations.

    Promotions are KEYED TO people's abilities.

Usage Examples: key in, key to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

key in

Example

Please key in your password to access your account.

Example

She keys in the data every day for her job.

key to

Example

The training program is keyed to the needs of the employees.

Example

She keys to the students' learning styles when planning her lessons.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Key in

To enter data or information into a computer or electronic device.

Example

She had to input the customer's details into the system before processing the order.

To enter text or characters into a computer or electronic device by pressing keys.

Example

He had to type in his password to access his email account.

To input or record data or information into a computer or electronic device.

Example

She had to enter the patient's medical history into the hospital's database.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Key to

Essential or extremely important for achieving something.

Example

Good communication skills are crucial for success in any job.

Necessary or indispensable for achieving a particular goal or outcome.

Example

A strong work ethic is vital to achieving one's career aspirations.

Absolutely necessary or critical for achieving a desired result or outcome.

Example

Proper planning is essential for the success of any project.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “key”

Phrasal Verbs with “in”

Differences in key in vs key to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: key in or key to?

In daily conversation, people use key to more often than key in. This is because key to is used to describe important things or factors that are necessary for success. Key in is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about entering data or information into a computer or electronic device. So, while both phrases are used, key to is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of key in and key to

Key in and key to are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of key in and key to

The tone of key in and key to can differ based on context. Key in often carries a technical or procedural tone when related to entering data or information, while key to typically has a more general and positive tone, especially when referring to achieving success or reaching a goal.

key in & key to: Synonyms and Antonyms

Key in

Synonyms

Antonyms

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