in key

Idioms  

1. 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

See Examples For:

in key

The military has deployed personnel to help with distribution in key hubs.

From Barron's ● Aug. 17, 2026

Still, Novo blowing its massive lead raises fresh questions about the ability of European companies to compete in key technologies defining the global economy, financial and economic analysts say.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 5, 2026

When the legendary frontman begins to sing, Mr. Jagger sounds enormous, bellowing with his full range while remaining in key.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

As heavier dark matter particles accumulate in key regions, dark matter substructures become more effective at magnifying the light from distant background galaxies.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 14, 2026

Given time, he could re-place Littlefinger's men with his own in key positions, but ...

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin