Translation guide
The English word "key" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a physical key for locks, a crucial element, a button on a keyboard, a musical key, and an answer key. It also touches on figurative and technical uses.
A metal object used to open a lock.
Something that is essential for success or understanding.
Used figuratively, just like in English. Often appears in the pattern 〜の鍵を握る (hold the key to...).
A button you press on a computer keyboard, piano, etc.
Standard for computer keyboard keys and piano keys. Also used in compounds like キーボード (keyboard).
The scale or tonality of a piece of music.
Used for musical keys, e.g., ハ長調 (C major). Often combined with the note name.
A set of correct answers for a test or puzzle.
Means 'answer' or 'solution'. Often used in 解答用紙 (answer sheet) or 解答集 (answer book).
A legend explaining symbols.
Standard term for a legend or key on a map, chart, or graph.
A piece of information used to encrypt or decrypt data.
Used in cryptography, just like in English. Often in compounds like 暗号鍵 (encryption key).
A field used to identify a record uniquely.
Standard term in database contexts, e.g., 主キー (primary key), 外部キー (foreign key).
鍵 (かぎ) is the native Japanese word and is used for physical keys and figurative 'key' concepts. キー is a loanword used mainly for keyboard keys, musical keys, and technical contexts. For house keys, 鍵 is much more common.
In English, 'key' is used in many compound words (e.g., 'keychain', 'keynote'). Japanese often uses different words: キーホルダー (keychain), 基調講演 (keynote speech). Avoid directly translating 'key' as 鍵 in these cases.
I forgot my keys.
Where did I put the car key?
The key to success is hard work.
He holds the key to the case.
Means 'point' or 'key point'. Often used in explanations or presentations.
What is the key point of this problem?
Means 'secret' or 'key to success'. Used for tips or know-how.
What's the key to a long life?
Enterキーを押してください。
Please press the Enter key.
A piano key broke.
Sometimes used for piano keys in classical contexts, but キー is more common.
piano keyboard
この曲は何調ですか？
What key is this song in?
a piece in C minor
Also used, especially in popular music contexts. Often in katakana.
The key is too high; I can't sing it.
Check the answer key for the problems.
General word for 'answer'. Can be used for answer keys in casual contexts.
Please solve it without looking at the answer key.
Model answer or official answer key, often used in educational settings.
The answer key was distributed.
Please look at the map key.
Encrypt with the public key.
Also used in IT contexts, e.g., セキュリティキー (security key).
Please enter the Wi-Fi key.
このテーブルの主キーはIDです。
The primary key of this table is ID.
The key to learning Japanese is practice.
Press any key to continue.