# key up

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/key-up
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to prepare or set up something, especially a keyboard or a document, for use.

For teachers: to prepare or arrange something, typically a keyboard or a document, for use or operation; often implies a preparatory action before use.

## Examples

- He keyed up the keyboard before the meeting.
- The assistant keyed up the presentation slides for the client's review.
- Before the launch, the team spent hours keying up the software to ensure everything was ready.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I key up." but "I keyed up the document." — the verb requires an object to indicate what is being prepared.

## Usage notes

- typically followed by a noun indicating the thing being prepared.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'set up' (more general) and 'prepare' (broader); 'key up' is specific to technical contexts like keyboards or documents.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.