der Key
key
A string of characters, a code, or a password needed to encrypt and decrypt data or to access a system.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du mir den Key für das WLAN geben?
Can you give me the key for the Wi-Fi?
der Key
key
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Meanings
der Key
key
Colloquial for a central, decisive element or the key to success.
EXAMPLE
Gute Kommunikation ist der Key für eine funktionierende Beziehung.
Good communication is the key to a functioning relationship.
Usage tips
Register and style
The word 'Key' (key) is an Anglicism and is used mainly in colloquial speech and informal contexts. It sounds modern and is often used by younger people.
EXAMPLE
Gib mir mal schnell den Key für dein Fahrradschloss.
Quick, give me the key for your bike lock.
Context clue
The meaning is easy to recognize from context. If people are talking about technology, computers, or security, it means a code or password. If it is about abstract things like success or a good relationship, it means the decisive element.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe den Product Key für die Software verloren.
I lost the product key for the software.
Typical collocations
In the technical meaning, 'Key' (key) is often used as part of compounds, such as 'WLAN-Key' (Wi-Fi key), 'Product-Key' (product key), or 'Lizenz-Key' (license key). Typical verbs are 'eingeben' (to enter), 'brauchen' (to need), or 'haben' (to have).
EXAMPLE
Du musst den 16-stelligen Key eingeben, um das Programm zu aktivieren.
You have to enter the 16-character key to activate the program.
Usage pattern
In the metaphorical meaning, the structure '[something] ist der Key für/zu [etwas]' ([something] is the key to/for [something]) is often used to describe a solution or a decisive factor.
EXAMPLE
Regelmäßiges Üben ist der Key zum Erfolg.
Regular practice is the key to success.
Compare with
Key vs Schlüssel
key / wrench
Schlüssel and Key can both refer to a code used to encrypt or decrypt data. Schlüssel is the standard German word, while Key is used especially in technical or informal language. Schlüssel is usually the better choice in a general text; in a technical conversation, Key may sound more natural.
Key
Im technischen Gespräch erklärt Tom, wie der geheime Key gespeichert wird.
In the technical conversation, Tom explains how the secret key is stored.
Schlüssel
In der deutschen Anleitung wird erklärt, wie der geheime Schlüssel gespeichert wird.
The German instructions explain how the secret key is stored.
In real life
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