a key ring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key ring" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a small ring or loop used to hold keys together. Example: "I always keep my house keys on a key ring to avoid losing them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

I bought a key ring for £1.99.

The Guardian - Opinion

Three winning shots got you a key ring.

The Guardian - Travel

A key ring reader helped keep track of your balance.

The Guardian - Money

(Style note: Don't use it as a key ring).

The New York Times

He recovered the velveteen bag; it contained Marc's dog tags and a key ring.

The New Yorker

A "lady pink" miniature pepper spray aerosol on a key ring.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

For that reason, 4-hydroxypropofol is a key ring-oxidative metabolite in rat livers, and it might be transported elsewhere for further glucuronide conjugation and consequent elimination.

BioMed Research International

There is a chain in it; could be a key-ring.

Independent

That's right: this is a key-ring that holds SIM cards and has a sophisticated anti-loss system.

TechCrunch

Last month he received a number of unexpected "gifts", including a key-ring, a phone case, a tattoo removal kit and a charcoal toothpaste set.

BBC

"All Charlie wanted was to go to the shop and get a mug and a key-ring," said his dad Mike.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing between "a key ring" and similar terms like "keychain". "Key ring" emphasizes the ring itself, while "keychain" may imply an attached ornament or chain.

Common error

Don't use overly generic terms like "thing" or "item" when "a key ring" provides a much more precise and informative description. Specificity enhances clarity and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key ring" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its role in identifying a specific object used for holding keys together.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a key ring" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a ring for holding keys, as confirmed by Ludwig. It appears frequently in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts, making it a versatile term. Alternatives like "keychain" and "key fob" can be used depending on the specific context. To ensure clarity in writing, using the specific term "a key ring" is preferable to more vague descriptions. Understanding its function and usage patterns allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keychain

This is a common and direct synonym for "a key ring".

key holder

A more general term for something that holds keys, like "a key ring".

key fob

This term often refers to a more substantial or electronic key holder, but can be used similarly.

key loop

A simple loop for holding keys like "a key ring".

key organizer

A device for organizing and holding keys together like "a key ring".

keychain accessory

Refers to decorative or functional items attached to "a key ring".

key clip

A clip designed to hold keys, similar in function to "a key ring".

keyring attachment

Focuses on something connected to "a key ring".

keys retainer

A device designed to hold keys securely like "a key ring".

split ring

Describes the specific type of ring often used for keys, and the functional part of "a key ring".

FAQs

What is another word for "a key ring"?

A common synonym for "a key ring" is "keychain". Other similar terms include key fob or key holder, depending on the specific design.

How do I use "a key ring" in a sentence?

You can use "a key ring" in sentences like: "I keep my house keys on a "key ring"." or "She attached a small charm to her "key ring"."

What is the difference between "a key ring" and "a keychain"?

While often used interchangeably, "a key ring" refers specifically to the metal ring that holds keys, while "keychain" can include the ring and any decorative attachments.

What are some alternative ways to organize my keys besides using "a key ring"?

Alternatives to "a key ring" include using a "key organizer", a key fob, or a carabiner clip attached to a belt loop.