Meaning
关键 means 'key' or 'crucial' and refers to the most important or decisive factor in a situation. It can function as a noun meaning 'the key point' or as an adjective meaning 'critical' or 'essential.' This word is commonly used to emphasize what matters most in achieving success or solving a problem.
Usage
Native speakers use 关键 frequently in both spoken and written contexts to highlight critical factors. It often appears in phrases like 关键是 (the key is...) or 关键时刻 (critical moment). It's suitable for formal and informal settings and is commonly used in business, academic, and everyday conversations when discussing important points or decisive moments.
Examples
- 01成功的关键是坚持不懈。.The key to success is perseverance.
- 02在关键时刻，他做出了正确的决定。, .At the critical moment, he made the right decision.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个关键因素
Common collocations
- 关键是the key is...
- 关键时刻critical moment
- 关键问题key issue
- 起关键作用play a crucial role
Antonyms
Origin
Originally 关键 referred to the bolt or latch mechanism (键) of a gate or door (关), the crucial component that locks or unlocks access. This literal meaning extended metaphorically to mean the decisive factor in any situation.