a key fixture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key fixture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is essential or a prominent part of a particular situation or environment. Example: "The old oak tree has been a key fixture in the park for generations, providing shade and a gathering place for the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

A key fixture of those early years was the weekly library trip.

The Guardian - Books

Stackhouse, a key fixture when the Mavericks went to the 2006 finals, was expected to be waived by the Nets so he could re-sign with Dallas.

The New York Times

Now in its 27th season, the Place's Resolution festival – an open platform that embraces new works – has become a key fixture in the British dance year.

The Guardian

And if Bafta's current position as a key fixture on the awards circuit is anything to go by, Carol, Bridge of Spies and The Revenant look set to clean up this awards season.

The Guardian - Film

You could literally go down every team and go: 'If they get out of the blocks well, they could win it.'" Yorkshire's own resources will once again hinge on the demands of England, with six players missing chunks of last season because of call-ups and their winter recruit, all-rounder David Willey, a key fixture in the white-ball game.

The Guardian - Sport

Pochettino was certainly taking a gamble by experimenting for the first time with an unorthodox 3-3-2-2 3-3-2-2 3-3-2-2 3-3-2-2 formationnd in wasucht easy at that stage to remember the visitors had the best defensive record in the league.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Eyes peeled for the key fixture on Monday: Doncaster v Swindon.

The Guardian - Sport

England have four group games remaining but the key fixture will be June's home game against the Netherlands, with whom they had a goalless away draw  last month.

BBC

"Spain will most likely be the key fixture [on Sunday] and we are targeting this game as an opportunity to get points on the board in the pool stage," said Shepherd.

BBC

Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport, said: "We're very pleased to renew our association with the Women's FA Cup Final and offer live coverage of this key fixture to viewers.

BBC

He is the hotel's animating presence, a giver of lavish dinner parties, a wine connoisseur happy to share his collection, and a low-key fixture in the city's art scene who knows all the best openings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key fixture" to describe something or someone that is essential to a particular environment or process. For example, you might say, "Regular maintenance is "a key fixture" of our operational strategy."

Common error

Avoid using "a key fixture" when referring to something that is merely important or helpful. The phrase implies an element that is fundamentally necessary and irreplaceable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key fixture" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in identifying essential or prominent elements within a given context, confirming its role in defining importance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a key fixture" is a noun phrase used to describe something essential or prominent within a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in News & Media. While appropriate for formal writing, it's crucial to reserve it for elements that are fundamentally necessary, not merely important. Alternatives like "an essential element" or "a vital component" can provide similar emphasis. Be mindful of scope to avoid overgeneralization and ensure the phrase accurately reflects the irreplaceable nature of what's being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential element

Focuses on the necessity and indispensability of something.

a vital component

Emphasizes the importance of something as part of a larger whole.

a cornerstone

Highlights the fundamental and supporting nature of something.

an integral part

Stresses the inseparability and necessity of something.

a crucial aspect

Highlights the critical nature of a particular element.

a fundamental element

Emphasizes the basic and essential nature of something.

a central figure

Refers specifically to a person who plays a significant role.

a mainstay

Indicates something that is consistently reliable and important over time.

an important feature

Focuses on the significance and noteworthiness of a particular characteristic.

a primary component

Highlights the main and essential nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a key fixture" in a sentence?

Use "a key fixture" to describe something or someone that is an essential or prominent part of a particular situation or environment. For example: "The annual festival is "a key fixture" of the town's summer calendar."

What are some alternatives to "a key fixture"?

You can use alternatives like "an essential element", "a vital component", or "a cornerstone" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a key fixture" in formal writing?

Yes, "a key fixture" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing something that is fundamentally necessary or plays a significant role in a specific context. It maintains a neutral and professional tone.

What is the difference between "a key fixture" and "an important part"?

"A key fixture" implies that something is essential and deeply ingrained, while "an important part" simply indicates that something is significant. "A key fixture" suggests a more fundamental and irreplaceable role.