51Թ

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View synonyms for

low-key

Or Ƿ·

[loh-kee]

adjective

  1. of reduced intensity; restrained; understated.

    Judicial elections used to be low-key affairs, attracting little campaign spending.

  2. (of a photograph) having chiefly dark tones, usually with little tonal contrast (high-key ).



adverb

  1. Slang.in a restrained or discreet way, or to a limited extent, without trying to attract attention.

    I low-key wish I was married with three kids, though it is fun to be single.

verb (used with object)

low-keyed, low-keying 
  1. to make or attempt to make low-key.

    to low-key the arms buildup.

low-key

adjective

  1. having a low intensity or tone

  2. restrained, subdued, or understated

  3. (of a photograph, painting, etc) having a predominance of dark grey tones or dark colours with few highlights Compare high-key

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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51Թ History and Origins

Origin of low-key1

First recorded in 1890–95
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

There was a low-key hope that next time - Liechtenstein on Monday - will be better.

From

But by the time organiser Michael Eavis threw his annual low-key autumn gig in the local village to thank residents for putting up with the main event, Squire was back in action.

From

Credit where due, though: the script, which he wrote with Enrico Natale, packs food for thought into a low-key speech, delivered by Pacino 17 minutes in, about the peril of division.

From

Modern ideas of wealth are simultaneously ostentatious and low-key.

From

Traynor’s can opener, adorned with earth-toned stones, will brighten up your kitchen and turn a low-key night of home cooking into a unique and surprisingly delightful experience.

From

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When To Use

What else does low-key mean?

Low-key can variously mean "quiet," "restrained," "moderate," or "easygoing." It can also behave as an adverb meaning "of low or moderate intensity." Like doing something, but in a "chill" way. For instance: We're having a party at my place but keeping it low-key so the neighbors don't complain.

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