1 C1 idiomatic neutral
To take a cue or signal from something in order to coordinate a response or action.
"The dancers were told to key off the drummer's downbeat at the start of each section."
inseparable
key off
C1 neutral separable transitive/intransitive
To take a cue or signal from something in order to time or coordinate an action; also, to turn off by key.
In plain English
To use something as a signal to start doing something, or to turn something off with a key.
What does "key off" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To switch a device or system off using a key or keyed mechanism.
"The security guard keyed off the alarm panel before entering the building."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To switch something off using a key.
Actually means
To use something as a signal to start doing something, or to turn something off with a key.
Usage tip
In performance, sport, and technical contexts, 'key off' means to react to a specific signal or cue. Also used literally to mean switching a device off with a key. Less common than related phrasal verbs.
Words that pair with "key off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
signal cue sound movement rhythm action
How to conjugate "key off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
key off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
keys off
he/she/it
Past simple
keyed off
yesterday
Past participle
keyed off
have + pp
-ing form
keying off
continuous
Hear "key off" in the wild
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Other ways to say "key off"
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