spare keys

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spare keys" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to additional keys that are kept as backups for access to a lock or a property. Example: "I always keep a set of spare keys hidden in case I get locked out of my house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Probably Donfrey's wife had a set of spare keys.

The New Yorker

"I make my own spare keys," he said.

The New York Times

Similarly, some homeowners hide spare keys outside the home.

The New York Times

With the KeyWatcher system, there are no spare keys floating around the concierge desk.

The New York Times

Keys Keep spare keys out of sight to prevent burglar's using a hook and wire through your letter box.

Independent

So, he urged people not to leave their spare keys in flowerpots, under rocks or above door ledges.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"We found the spare key under the welcome mat".

The New Yorker

Using the spare key that he carried, he unlocked the front door and entered the house.

The New Yorker

After about 10 minutes, they got a spare key from an attendant and unlocked the door.

The New York Times

They had previously bought a spare key, but unfortunately did not have its chip programmed.

Independent

A lettings agent who held a spare key showed the policeman in.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing home security, emphasize the importance of not hiding "spare keys" in obvious places like under doormats or in flowerpots, as burglars are aware of these common hiding spots.

Common error

Don't assume that simply having "spare keys" is enough. Ensure they are stored securely, either with a trusted individual or in a secure lockbox, to prevent unauthorized access.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spare keys" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig highlights, it denotes additional keys kept for backup purposes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Social Media

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spare keys" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to additional or backup keys. As Ludwig confirms, it’s widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and carries a neutral register. When discussing "spare keys", it's crucial to emphasize secure storage to prevent unauthorized access. Alternatives such as "duplicate keys" or "backup keys" can be used depending on the specific nuance intended. Remember not to hide them under the doormat!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

duplicate keys

Focuses on the fact that the keys are a copy of the original.

extra keys

A more general term for additional keys.

backup keys

Emphasizes the role of the keys as a contingency measure.

emergency keys

Highlights the use of the keys in urgent situations.

reserve keys

Implies that the keys are kept in storage for later use.

secondary keys

Indicates that the keys are not the primary set.

alternative keys

A broader term for keys used instead of the main set.

additional keys

Simply states that there are more keys available.

copy keys

Indicates that the keys were created by copying the original.

offsite keys

Suggests that the keys are stored in a separate location for security.

FAQs

How to use "spare keys" in a sentence?

You can use "spare keys" in a sentence like: "I keep a set of "spare keys" with my neighbor in case I get locked out."

What's a safer alternative to hiding "spare keys" under a doormat?

Instead of hiding "spare keys" in obvious places, consider giving them to a trusted neighbor or using a secure lockbox.

What can I say instead of "spare keys"?

You can use alternatives like "duplicate keys", "extra keys", or "backup keys" depending on the context.

Is it safe to leave "spare keys" with a building's concierge?

While it's common in some buildings, leaving "spare keys" with a concierge depends on the building's security protocols and your trust in the staff. Always inquire about their key management system.