in key
In consonance or accordance with other elements, factors, or styles. A reference to musical tonality. Jonathan's fashion sense is impeccable, with each facet of his ensemble in key with the others. I like their new song, even though it's not in key with their usual style. The new building isn't exactly in key with the Georgian style of the city's older structures.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
in key
In harmony with other factors, in a matching style, as in This furniture is perfectly in key with the overall design. This term uses key in the musical sense, that is, "a scheme of notes related to one another." The antonym, out of key, means "not in harmony with other factors," or "unsuitable," as in He is out of key with his time. [c. 1900]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
in (or out of) key
in (or out of) harmony.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
in key
In consonance with other factors.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.