delete key

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delete key" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific key on a computer keyboard that is used to remove text or data. Example: "If you want to remove the last character you typed, simply press the delete key."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Highlight, slam delete key.

The New York Times

When in doubt, hit the delete key.

The Washington Post

Hit your delete key!" And suddenly your mission becomes clear.

The New York Times

He highlights the line and slams the delete key.

The New York Times

Both Macs and Windows have a "delete" key.

Harvard University

Yes, they came from the apartheid era and no one has pressed the delete key.

The Guardian

It's like pressing the delete key on a whole chunk of life.

The Guardian

Then press the Delete key to remove the incorrect address from the list.

The New York Times - Tech

Recipients can drum the delete key, but the messages keep coming.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Once an object has been highlighted, pressing the 'delete' key will delete it.

Harvard University

There's no Forward Delete key, Fn key, menu key, Print Screen key or Windows key (duh).

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the "delete key" for removing characters forward of the cursor, and the backspace key for removing characters behind the cursor.

Common error

Avoid using "delete key" and backspace interchangeably. The "delete key" removes characters to the right of the cursor, while the backspace key removes characters to the left.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delete key" functions primarily as a noun, specifically identifying a key on a keyboard. It is used to describe the action of removing or erasing content. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

35%

News & Media

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delete key" is a common and grammatically correct term referring to the key used to remove characters or content, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's frequently found in Wiki, News & Media, and Academic contexts, highlighting its widespread use. While the phrase is generally neutral, its specific usage can vary. Alternatives like "remove key" or "backspace key" offer nuanced ways to describe similar actions. When using "delete key", it's essential to differentiate it from the backspace key, as they remove content in opposite directions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delete function

Highlights the overall function of deletion.

remove key

Focuses on the action of removing, similar to deleting.

backspace key

Specifies the key used to delete characters behind the cursor.

erase button

Emphasizes the function of erasing content.

clear key

Highlights the action of clearing data or text.

suppress key

Suggests preventing or stopping the display of content.

rub out key

Emphasizes a more physical action of removing text.

obliterate key

Implies complete removal or destruction of content.

discard option

Focuses on the choice to get rid of something.

cut command

Refers to a command that removes content to be pasted elsewhere.

FAQs

How do I use the "delete key" on a Mac?

The "delete key" on a Mac is labeled as "delete" or has a left-pointing arrow. It removes characters to the right of the cursor. For deleting characters to the left of the cursor, use the backspace key (labeled delete).

What's the difference between the "delete key" and the backspace key?

The "delete key" removes characters to the right of the cursor, while the backspace key removes characters to the left. They perform opposite functions in text editing.

What can I say instead of "delete key"?

You can use alternatives like "remove key" or "backspace key" depending on the specific action you want to describe.

How do I permanently delete a file using the "delete key"?

To permanently delete a file without sending it to the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac), select the file and press Shift + "delete key". Be cautious, as this action is irreversible.