under lock and key

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under lock and key" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is tightly secured or kept away safely and securely. For example, "The crown jewels are kept under lock and key until the coronation ceremony."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Data is kept under lock and key.

The New York Times

(These are under lock and key).

The New York Times - Books

Meantime, the bobblehead dolls are under lock and key.

The New York Times - Sports

Her mistress now keeps the ashtrays under lock and key.

The New Yorker

The Proof resides in a notebook, under lock and key.

The New Yorker

He collected guns and kept them under lock and key.

The New York Times - Health

"We have it under lock and key," Lang said.

The New York Times

In fact, crucial details are kept under lock and key.

The Economist

This data is under lock and key no more.

MIT Technology Review

Further details seem to be under lock and key.

The Washington Post

Until now, this movie has been under lock and key under French law.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "under lock and key" to emphasize the security and confidentiality of something, whether physical objects or sensitive information.

Common error

Avoid using "under lock and key" only in literal contexts. The phrase is often used figuratively to describe information or ideas that are closely guarded or kept secret.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under lock and key" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It describes the manner in which something is kept or stored, emphasizing its security. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted in standard English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under lock and key" is a commonly used and grammatically correct idiomatic expression that signifies something is securely stored or kept secret. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it effectively conveys the idea of protection and confidentiality. When using this phrase, be sure to consider its figurative potential, as it often extends beyond literal physical security.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

securely stored

Focuses on the method of keeping something safe, rather than the act of locking it up.

safeguarded

Implies a proactive effort to protect something from harm or unauthorized access.

strictly protected

Highlights the level of security and the measures taken to ensure it.

held in confidence

Emphasizes the confidentiality aspect, suggesting that information is not to be shared.

closely guarded

Suggests vigilant protection to prevent access or disclosure.

in a secure location

Focuses on the physical aspect of safety, indicating a place designed for protection.

in safe keeping

Highlights the security in order to preserve the item

kept secret

Highlights the intention to keep something unknown to others.

under wraps

Implies that something is concealed or hidden from public view.

classified

Suggests a formal level of secrecy, often used in government or military contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "under lock and key" in a sentence?

You can use "under lock and key" to describe something being securely stored, like "The original manuscript is kept "under lock and key" in the museum vault".

What does "under lock and key" mean?

The phrase "under lock and key" means something is stored very securely and is protected from theft or unauthorized access. It can also be used figuratively to describe information that is kept secret.

What are some synonyms for "under lock and key"?

Some synonyms for "under lock and key" include "securely stored", "safeguarded", or "kept secret". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is "under lock and keys"?

No, the correct phrase is "under lock and key", not "under lock and keys". The singular form "key" is always used.