1 B2 idiomatic informal
To direct one's full attention or effort toward a specific goal or detail.
"The coach told the team to key in on the opponent's weak defence in the second half."
inseparable
key in on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To focus precisely on a specific target, detail, or idea.
In plain English
To look very carefully at one thing and give it all your attention.
What does "key in on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic neutral
To identify and target a specific weakness, opportunity, or factor.
"The analysts keyed in on rising inflation as the main risk to the forecast."
inseparable
Usage tip
Primarily North American English. Common in sports commentary, business, and analytical contexts. Suggests strategic or deliberate narrowing of attention.
Words that pair with "key in on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
target issue problem detail weakness opportunity
How to conjugate "key in on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
key in on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
keys in on
he/she/it
Past simple
keyed in on
yesterday
Past participle
keyed in on
have + pp
-ing form
keying in on
continuous
Hear "key in on" in the wild
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Other ways to say "key in on"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
concentrate on focus on home in on hone in on pinpoint zero in on
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