a set of keys

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a set of keys' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to multiple keys, perhaps grouped together on a keychain. For example, "I was able to finally find my house keys in the bottom of my purse—it was a set of keys I'd forgotten about."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A man threw him a set of keys.

The New Yorker

A set of keys, a doormat, a bunch of lilies?

The New York Times - Magazine

Johnnie has a set of keys to Frankie's apartment.

The New York Times

Losing a set of keys can be a traumatic inconvenience.

The Guardian - Music

Everybody has misplaced something of value: a set of keys, eyeglasses, a cellphone.

The New York Times

She also gave her a set of keys and allowed her a measure of freedom.

The New York Times

For this purpose, on the mantel you'll find a set of keys to my vacation house.

The New Yorker

Boy George paid for their rooms in cash, and handed Joey a set of keys.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

based on a set of key principles.

Stanford University

This class stores a set of key-value pairs.

Stanford University

Yet, the original kindling model suffers from a set of key problems.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about lost or found items, be specific: "a set of keys" can be more helpful than simply stating "keys".

Common error

Avoid using "a set of key" as it is grammatically incorrect. "Set" implies a collection, so "keys" should always be plural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set of keys" functions primarily as a noun phrase. As evidenced by Ludwig, it typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition, denoting a collection of keys, or is used to describe something being handed over, lost, or found.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

17%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set of keys" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It refers to multiple keys and commonly appears in news, academic, and general contexts. The phrase maintains a neutral tone and is widely understood. When using this phrase, be mindful of proper pluralization and context. For alternative expressions, consider "some keys" or "a bunch of keys", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some keys

Replaces "a set of" with "some", indicating an unspecified quantity of keys.

a bunch of keys

Uses "bunch" instead of "set" to describe a collection of keys, implying a more informal grouping.

a key ring

Refers to the object that holds keys together, rather than the keys themselves.

duplicate keys

Specifies that the keys are copies, altering the meaning to focus on replication.

master keys

Implies that the keys can open multiple locks, changing the meaning to indicate broad access.

a spare key

Refers to a single backup key, changing the quantity from multiple to one.

access keys

Highlights the function of the keys to grant access, shifting the focus from the object to its purpose.

encrypted keys

Adds the attribute of encryption, implying that the keys are digital and used for security.

skeleton keys

Refers to antique keys designed to open warded locks, altering the type and historical context.

digital keys

Indicates that the keys are not physical objects, but rather digital codes for unlocking digital systems.

FAQs

How do you use "a set of keys" in a sentence?

You can use "a set of keys" to describe multiple keys grouped together, such as on a keyring. For example: "He found "a set of keys" near the entrance to the building."

What's another way to say "a set of keys"?

Alternatives to "a set of keys" include "a bunch of keys" or simply "some keys", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a keys" instead of "a set of keys"?

No, "a keys" is grammatically incorrect. Keys, being plural, cannot be preceded by the singular article "a". Use ""a set of keys"" or "some keys" instead.

What is the difference between "a set of keys" and "the keys"?

"A set of keys" refers to an unspecified group of keys, while "the keys" refers to a specific group of keys already known to the speaker and listener.