a key one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the importance of a specific item or element within a larger context. Example: "In our discussion about climate change, the role of renewable energy is a key one that cannot be overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

There's one on waking, another on getting out of bed and a key one when tasting the day's first cup of tea.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A key one?

The Guardian

"That was a key," one senior official said.

The New York Times

I suspect that question is a key one for the Occupy movement.

The Guardian - Opinion

We do have set rules – no working in our pyjamas is a key one!

The Guardian

The question of "publics" has become a key one for large museums.

The Guardian

A key one was in mending relations with Chinese and Macau officials who disliked Adelson's apparently forthright and brusque manner.

The Guardian

"Disabled people face a myriad of challenges, but a key one is the ability to safely get around.

The Guardian

But he also has seven errors this season, including a key one Sunday in a 4-1 defeat in Colorado.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Art Dubai has become a key one-stop shop for international dealers and collectors.

The New York Times

The bill would cut the deficit by about $2.4 trillion over 10 years, and hike the debt ceiling by the same amount -- a key one-to-one match demanded by Republicans.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key one" to highlight the most important aspect of a topic, argument, or situation. This helps focus the reader's attention on what truly matters.

Common error

While versatile, avoid using "a key one" excessively in very informal conversations. Opt for more casual synonyms to maintain a natural tone and avoid sounding overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key one" functions primarily as a subject complement or adjectival phrase. It highlights and emphasizes a specific element or aspect within a larger context, identifying it as particularly important or essential. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a key one" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the importance of a specific element within a broader context. As indicated by Ludwig AI, its usage is correct and widespread. It is most frequently found in News & Media sources, but also appears in scientific and business contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for conveying significance without excessive formality. To effectively use "a key one", focus on highlighting the most important aspect of a topic, argument, or situation, while avoiding overuse in very informal conversations to maintain a natural tone. Alternatives include "a crucial aspect" or "an essential element", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial aspect

Emphasizes the decisiveness and critical nature of the aspect.

an essential element

Highlights the necessity and fundamental quality of the element.

a vital component

Stresses the importance of the component for the overall function.

a significant factor

Indicates the considerable influence of the factor.

a central point

Focuses on the core idea or argument.

a principal concern

Highlights the main worry or issue.

a major consideration

Emphasizes the importance of the consideration when making a decision.

a primary focus

Indicates the main area of attention or effort.

a noteworthy feature

Highlights a particularly interesting or important characteristic.

a leading aspect

Focuses on an aspect that guides or directs something.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a key one" in a sentence?

Use "a key one" to emphasize the most important element or aspect within a larger context. For example: "Among the many challenges, adaptability is "a key one" for success."

What are some alternatives to "a key one"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a crucial aspect", "an essential element", or "a significant factor".

When is it appropriate to use "a key one" in writing?

It's appropriate in both formal and informal writing when you want to highlight the importance of something. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it fits seamlessly.

What's the difference between "a key one" and "the key one"?

"A key one" implies there are multiple important elements, but you're highlighting one specific one. "The key one" suggests there's only one truly important element among others. The article choice changes the nuance.