key ally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key ally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important or crucial partner in a particular context, such as politics, business, or personal relationships. Example: "In the negotiations, the senator proved to be a key ally in securing the necessary votes for the bill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Key ally.

The New York Times

He lost a key ally here".

The New York Times

That sector is a key ally.

The Guardian

Bensalah is a key ally of Bouteflika.

The Washington Post

Rumsfeld's exit leaves Cheney without key ally.

The Guardian

Mr Fazio's key ally has been Umberto Bossi's Northern League.

The Economist

Relations with Turkey, probably his key ally, have cooled.

The Economist

Hamilton would be Miller's key ally in the process.

The New Yorker

He has turned Russia into a key ally.

The New York Times

Throughout this period she had one key ally: Amer.

The Guardian

The US has been a key ally of Rwanda.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key ally", ensure the context clearly establishes the nature of the alliance. Specify the area in which the ally is crucial for better clarity. For example, "a key ally in negotiations".

Common error

Avoid using "key ally" as a generic compliment. Ensure the relationship truly signifies a strategic alliance or crucial support, not just a friendly acquaintance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key ally" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a person, group, or entity that provides crucial support or assistance. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key ally" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone or something providing crucial support. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, ensuring contextual relevance and avoiding overuse enhances its impact. Consider alternatives like "crucial supporter" or "vital partner" for nuanced expression. Being mindful of these suggestions ensures the accurate and effective use of "key ally" in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crucial supporter

Emphasizes the support aspect, highlighting the person's role in providing assistance.

vital partner

Focuses on the partnership aspect, suggesting a collaborative relationship is essential.

indispensable associate

Highlights the necessity of the associate, implying they are crucial for success.

primary advocate

Emphasizes the active role of advocating or supporting a cause or person.

chief collaborator

Focuses on the collaborative aspect, indicating a significant working relationship.

principal backer

Highlights the act of backing or supporting, often financially or politically.

leading proponent

Emphasizes the act of promoting or advocating for something.

essential confederate

Highlights a shared purpose or alliance, often in a more formal or strategic context.

critical resource

Shifts the focus to the person being a valuable asset or source of support.

significant help

A more general term emphasizing the importance of their assistance.

FAQs

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

You can use "key ally" to describe someone or something that provides crucial support or assistance. For example: "The senator was a "key ally" in passing the new legislation".

What is a good substitute for "key ally"?

Alternatives to "key ally" include "crucial supporter", "vital partner", or "indispensable associate". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "key ally" or "important ally"?

"Key ally" implies a more strategic or crucial role than "important ally". While both are correct, "key ally" suggests a relationship that is central to achieving a specific goal, while "important ally" is more general.

What's the difference between a "key ally" and a "close friend"?

A "key ally" implies a strategic partnership based on shared goals, whereas a "close friend" suggests a personal relationship based on mutual affection and trust. While a close friend can also be a key ally, the terms highlight different aspects of the relationship.