A lock keeps a door secured until it is opened with the right key.

The idea

Lock is countable: a lock, two locks. A key fits a lock.

Examples

  • The lock on the front door is broken.
  • This key fits the kitchen door lock.
  • We need a new lock for the back door.
  • Turn the key in the lock slowly.
  • The two doors have different locks.
  • Can you check the lock before we leave?

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Watch out

A lock is the mechanism; a key is the object used to open it.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct word. Put the key in the ___. (lock / wall)

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    lock

    lock: the key goes into the mechanism.

  2. Choose the correct word. The three doors have three ___. (locks / lock)

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    locks

    locks: there are three separate mechanisms.

  3. Choose the correct word. Use the ___ to open the lock. (key / roof)

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    key

    key: this object opens the lock.

Use it today

Describe a door and its lock, and say where the key is.