they are keys

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are keys" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to multiple keys, either literally (as in physical keys) or metaphorically (as in important factors or elements). Example: "In this puzzle, they are keys to unlocking the next level of the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

They are keys to we know not what.

Independent

The problem with the bodies is that they are keys to how history will be told.

The New York Times

And they are keys to why so many party leaders believed that Mr. Bush could credibly cast himself as a new-style Republican who, to borrow a metaphor that was clubbed to death in the last presidential election, is a bridge to the country's future, not its past.

The New York Times

At the same time they are keys to solve the greatest problem in CNT utilization-debundling and individualization.

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

I pride myself on these established relationships as they are keys to one's case such as scheduling and filing documents.

Cover Letter

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

They are key.

The New Yorker

"They are key players for us.

The Guardian - Sport

They are key performance indicators for the entire organisation.

The Guardian

"Their development throughout the second half is important because they are key guys to our future".

The New York Times - Sports

They are keyed to the sienna and ocher tones of her Upper East Side apartment.

The New York Times - Style

Dubbed as 'travel believers' by Expedia, they are key influencers in the social sphere.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they are keys" when you want to emphasize that certain elements are crucial for understanding or achieving something. It implies that without these elements, success or comprehension is impossible.

Common error

Avoid using "they are keys" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive and weaken the impact. Vary your language by using synonyms like "crucial", "essential", or "fundamental" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are keys" functions as a subject complement, attributing a quality or characteristic to the subject ("they"). As Ludwig AI suggests, it's generally correct and usable, highlighting essential elements for understanding or achieving a goal.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are keys" is grammatically correct and used to highlight essential elements or factors crucial for achieving something or understanding a concept. Although its frequency is rare, Ludwig AI confirms it's acceptable for use in various contexts, from news and media to science and formal business. When employing this phrase, ensure it genuinely reflects indispensability and consider alternatives to avoid repetition. Ludwig's analysis underscores its function as a subject complement, emphasizing its purpose in communicating criticality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are crucial

Replaces "keys" with "crucial", emphasizing the critical importance.

they are essential

Uses "essential" to highlight the necessity of the items being referred to.

they are fundamental

Substitutes "keys" with "fundamental", stressing the foundational aspect.

they are vital

Emphasizes the importance using "vital", suggesting indispensability.

they are critical components

Replaces "keys" with "critical components", highlighting the role as necessary parts.

they are indispensable

Indicates that something is absolutely necessary.

they are important factors

Uses "important factors" to convey the significant influence of the subjects.

they are primary drivers

Focuses on the driving force aspect.

they are main elements

Highlights the primary composition.

they are cornerstones

This expression indicates the essential foundations.

FAQs

How can I use "they are keys" in a sentence?

You can use "they are keys" to highlight essential elements or factors that unlock understanding or success. For example, "In this puzzle, they are keys to unlocking the next level of the game."

What are some alternatives to "they are keys"?

You can use alternatives like "they are crucial", "they are essential", or "they are fundamental" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "they are keys" in formal writing?

Yes, "they are keys" can be used in formal writing to emphasize importance. However, consider your audience and the specific context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone and style.

What's the difference between "they are keys" and "they are important"?

"They are keys" implies a more direct and essential role in unlocking or achieving something. While "they are important" simply denotes significance, "they are keys" suggests a necessary and indispensable function.