one of the keys

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one of the keys" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to describe something unique within a group or set of items. For example, "Finding the right balance between work and leisure is one of the keys to a satisfying lifestyle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Well, dissatisfaction is one of the keys on my piano.

The New York Times - Magazine

One of the keys to Chinese art is calligraphy.

The New York Times - Arts

That's one of the keys.

The New York Times

One of the keys is Messi's genius.

The New York Times - Sports

One of the keys was changing coaches.

The New York Times - Sports

Education is one of the keys here.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

One of the key risk points is on the farm.

The Guardian

So, one of the key things is Micron-on-Micron.

Forbes

That is one of the key controls".

The Guardian

One of the key words is "laborious".

The New York Times

Distribution is one of the key hurdles.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "one of the keys", ensure that the context clearly indicates what it is a key to. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overusing "one of the keys" in your writing. While it's a useful phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Opt for synonyms like "a crucial element" or "a significant aspect" to add variety and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one of the keys" functions as a subject complement or adjectival phrase that identifies a particular aspect as being important or essential within a larger context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show it highlighting vital elements in various scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "one of the keys" is a versatile expression used to highlight the significance of a particular element or factor within a broader context. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical correctness and widespread usage make it a valuable tool for emphasizing crucial aspects in various scenarios. Analysis of example usages reveals its frequent presence in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating its applicability across diverse fields. When using "one of the keys", it's important to ensure the context clearly identifies what it is a key to, and to avoid overuse by considering synonyms like "a crucial element" or "an important factor" for varied and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial element

Emphasizes the essential nature of a specific element.

an important factor

Highlights the significance of a factor contributing to an outcome.

a vital component

Stresses the necessity of a component for the whole to function.

a significant aspect

Points out the notability of a particular aspect.

a contributing factor

Underscores the role of a factor in contributing to a result.

a primary driver

Identifies the main force behind a process or outcome.

a central element

Indicates an element of core importance.

a key ingredient

Suggests an essential element, often in a metaphorical sense.

an essential aspect

Highlights the indispensability of a specific aspect.

a critical piece

Emphasizes the importance of a particular piece to a larger puzzle.

FAQs

How can I use "one of the keys" in a sentence?

Use "one of the keys" to highlight a particularly important element or factor among several others. For example, "Effective communication is "one of the keys" to a successful relationship."

What are some alternatives to "one of the keys"?

You can use alternatives like "a crucial element", "an important factor", or "a vital component" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "one of the key" instead of "one of the keys"?

No, the correct form is "one of the keys". The plural form "keys" indicates that you are selecting one from a group of important elements.

What's the difference between "one of the keys" and "the key"?

"One of the keys" implies that there are multiple important factors, while "the key" suggests that there is a single, most important factor. For example, saying "Hard work is "the key" to success" implies it's the primary factor, while "Hard work is "one of the keys" to success" suggests other factors also contribute.