room key
/ruːm kiː/
Meaning
A room key is the physical key or plastic card used to lock and unlock your hotel room. In modern hotels, it is usually an electronic plastic card, but the general term 'room key' is still used for both traditional metal keys and modern cards.
Examples
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I think I left my room key on the nightstand inside the room.
I think I left my room key on the nightstand inside the room.
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Could you give us a second room key for my husband?
Could you give us a second room key for my husband?
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Please return your room key to the front desk when you check out.
Please return your room key to the front desk when you check out.
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My room key isn't working, so I can't open my door.
My room key isn't working, so I can't open my door.
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He put the room key in his pocket before heading down to the pool.
He put the room key in his pocket before heading down to the pool.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I lost my key of the room.
✓ I lost my room key.
In English, we use the compound noun 'room key' rather than 'key of the room,' which sounds wordy and unnatural.
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✗ Can I have another bedroom key?
✓ Can I have another room key?
In a hotel context, we always say 'room key,' never 'bedroom key,' even though you sleep in a bedroom.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Excuse me, my ___ is not working on the elevator.
💡 The object you use to access your hotel room.
Show answer
room key
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Make sure you have your ___ before you close the door.
💡 The tool to unlock your door so you don't get locked out.
Show answer
room key