der Schlüssel
Translation
key, solution, code
Examples
Ich habe meinen Schlüssel verloren.
I have lost my key.
Bildung ist der Schlüssel zum Erfolg.
Education is the key to success.
Grammar Patterns
zu+3 ((sth.)) the key to sth. der Schlüssel zum Erfolg
für+4 ((sth.)) the key for sth. der Schlüssel für die Tür
Similar Words
Synonyms: Lösung (solution); Antonyms: Problem, Rätsel (riddle)
Etymology
Related to the verb 'schließen' (to close, to lock). A key is what you use to lock something.
Memory Tips
A 'Schlüssel' is used to 'schließen' (lock) a 'Schloss' (lock). The words are closely related.