crux; key point; decisive factor; crucial
Meanings
3 senses · 10 examplesnoun
door bolt; latch
archaicThis is the original, literal meaning, now less common in everyday language.
Ancient doors usually had a door bolt.
He pulled out the latch and opened the heavy wooden door.
noun
crux; key point; decisive factor
This is the most common modern usage, referring to the most important element that determines success or failure.
Understanding the situation is the key to solving the problem.
The key to running a school well lies in improving teaching quality.
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The key to successful negotiation is mutual trust.
Once you find the crux of the problem, you can achieve twice the result with half the effort.
adjective
crucial; critical; key
Used to describe things or moments of paramount importance.
This is the most critical issue at present.
He made the right decision at the critical moment.
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Key figures often do not appear easily.
Mastering key technologies is crucial for enterprise development.