take the keys

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'take the keys' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action, for example, "John asked me to take the keys to the car and unlock the door".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"You take the keys away.

The New York Times

We need to take the keys away from him".

The New York Times

Next time, take the keys out of the car.

The New York Times

"I told him: 'I'm going to take the keys to your car.

The New York Times - Sports

EVERYBODY had a story to tell about trying to take the keys from an elderly driver.

The New York Times

She will be the second Clinton in a row to take the keys to the White House from a Bush.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Bluebeard: Take the key / All my wives await thee!

The Guardian - Music

"If I went in to take the key to your apartment," he said, "I could take the key next to it".

The New York Times

There was no need to lock the car or take the key.

The New Yorker

15-16 FebRussianussian forces take the key railway town of Debaltseve.

Independent

Students must take the Key Courses.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing. The phrase can be used in both serious and lighthearted contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "take the keys" if the audience might misinterpret the metaphorical meaning. If there is ambiguity, provide clarifying context to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take the keys" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action of gaining possession or control. This can be interpreted literally, as in taking physical keys, or metaphorically, as gaining control of a situation or organization, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take the keys" is a common and grammatically sound expression with both literal and metaphorical applications. As identified by Ludwig AI, it primarily functions as a verb phrase to indicate the act of gaining possession or control, often with an undertone of responsibility. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to everyday conversation, making it a versatile phrase in the English language. When using "take the keys" metaphorically, ensure that the context clearly establishes what the 'keys' represent to avoid potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step into the driver's seat

Emphasizes taking control, particularly in a project or organization.

take charge

Emphasizes the act of assuming responsibility and leadership.

take over the reins

Implies taking over leadership or management.

assume control

Focuses on the aspect of gaining control, omitting the literal 'keys'.

assume responsibility

Stresses the acceptance of duties and accountability.

seize the initiative

Highlights taking proactive control and starting something.

gain possession

Highlights the act of acquiring ownership.

take custody

Focuses on the aspect of gaining legal guardianship or control.

grab the baton

Implies continuing a task or project from someone else.

inherit the authority

Implies receiving power or control from a predecessor.

FAQs

How can I use "take the keys" in a sentence?

You can use "take the keys" literally, like in "Take the keys out of the ignition", or metaphorically, such as "The new CEO will "take charge" and "take the keys" to the company's future".

What does "take the keys" mean in a political context?

In politics, "take the keys" often symbolizes assuming power or control of a government or policy. For example, "After a sweeping victory, the opposition party is ready to "assume control" and "take the keys" to the nation's governance".

What is a similar phrase to "take the keys"?

Similar phrases include ""take charge"", "assume responsibility", or "take over the reins", all suggesting the act of gaining control or leadership.

Is it acceptable to use "take the keys" in formal writing?

While "take the keys" is widely understood, its appropriateness in formal writing depends on the context. In business or academic writing, consider more formal alternatives like ""assume control"" or "assume responsibility" for a more professional tone.