Pronunciation: /loʊ-ki/

Definitions of low-key

adjective referring to something that is modest, restrained, or not highly noticeable or prominent

Example Sentences

A1 I like to keep things low-key and simple.

A2 She prefers low-key gatherings with just a few close friends.

B1 The restaurant has a low-key atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal.

B2 He has a low-key personality, not one to seek attention or praise.

C1 Despite his fame, he maintains a low-key lifestyle away from the public eye.

C2 The artist's new exhibit had a low-key opening, attended only by a select group of art enthusiasts.

adverb referring to an action or behavior that is done in a subtle or discreet manner

Example Sentences

A1 I like to keep things low-key when I go out with friends.

A2 She prefers low-key gatherings with close friends over big parties.

B1 The couple had a low-key wedding ceremony with just family and a few friends.

B2 After the intense competition, the team decided to have a low-key celebration.

C1 Despite his fame, the actor leads a low-key lifestyle away from the spotlight.

C2 The artist's new album had a low-key release without much promotion.

Examples of low-key in a Sentence

formal The event was organized in a low-key manner to maintain a professional atmosphere.

informal Let's keep this party low-key and just invite a few close friends.

slang I'm feeling pretty low-key today, just want to chill and watch some movies.

figurative His low-key attitude towards life often surprises people who expect him to be more outgoing.

Grammatical Forms of low-key

past tense

low-keyed

plural

low-keys

comparative

lower-key

superlative

lowest-key

present tense

low-keys

future tense

will low-key

perfect tense

have low-keyed

continuous tense

is low-keying

singular

low-key

positive degree

low-key

infinitive

to low-key

gerund

low-keying

participle

low-keyed

Origin and Evolution of low-key

First Known Use: 1927 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The term 'low-key' originated from the music industry in the early 20th century.
Evolution of the word: Initially used to describe a style of music that was mellow or subdued, the term 'low-key' has evolved to also refer to a subtle or understated manner or approach in various contexts.