key person

USAGE SUMMARY

"key person" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who is important or influential in a particular situation or area. For example: "The CEO was the key person in the negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

The sampling took place via e-mail invitations, through personal contact or inviting a key person to ask colleagues.

BMJ Open

"Of course George was the key person," Coppola admits.

The New Yorker

the professional midwife is a key person for promoting maternal and family health.

Midwifery

When he introduces Robert to a friend, he always says, "This is Robert, the key person".

The New Yorker

He is a key person in certain networks, so he is linked to that generation.

The Guardian - Arts

"During the election campaign, Ashraf Ghani came here and told Dostum: 'You are a key person'.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

I'm just a more low-key person".

The New York Times

"I'm a low-key person and I just want to make some tunes, nothing else".

The Guardian - Music

She seemed baffled by my invitation, explaining, "I'm a pretty low-key person".

The New York Times

But we both already knew that she was a low-key person and hard to read.

Forbes

"I'm just a low-key person.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key person", ensure the context clearly establishes why the individual is essential. Providing specific examples of their contributions strengthens the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone a "key person" without providing evidence of their significance. Overuse dilutes the phrase's impact and can appear insincere. Instead, focus on highlighting their specific contributions or unique skills.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key person" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As supported by Ludwig AI, it identifies an individual who is essential or of primary importance within a specific context. The examples in Ludwig show it qualifying people in various professional and personal settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key person" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that identifies someone of significant importance or influence, as supported by Ludwig. Its primary function is to highlight an individual's crucial role, and it's generally employed in neutral to professional registers. To maximize its impact, ensure the context clearly justifies the individual's designation as essential and prevent overuse without substantive support. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both correct and widely applicable, making it a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instrumental person

Focuses on the person's role in achieving a specific outcome.

essential person

Highlights the person's necessity for the success or operation of something.

pivotal person

Emphasizes the person's critical role in a turning point or significant event.

critical individual

Underscores the person's importance and indispensability.

main contributor

Focuses on the person's significant contributions to a project or endeavor.

lead figure

Indicates the person's prominent role and influence.

central figure

Highlights the person's position at the center of events or activities.

go-to person

Suggests the person is the first choice for assistance or information.

point person

Implies the person is the main contact or representative.

linchpin

Highlights the individual's critical function in holding all elements together.

FAQs

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

You can use "key person" to identify someone crucial in a project, organization, or event. For example, "She was the "key person" in securing the deal."

What are some alternatives to "key person"?

Alternatives include "instrumental person", "essential person", and "pivotal person". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "key person" or "key individual"?

Both "key person" and "key individual" are acceptable. "Key person" is slightly more common, but "key individual" can be used for a more formal or neutral tone.

What does "key person" insurance mean?

"Key person" insurance is a life insurance policy a company takes out on an employee whose death would cause significant financial loss. It helps the company mitigate risks associated with losing that individual.