Key Out (Verb)
Meaning
Identify as in botany or biology, for example.
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- The botanist began to key out the plant by observing its leaf shape and color, slowly narrowing down the possible species.
- By examining the unique shape of the flowers, the student was able to key out the specimen and identify its genus.
- The taxonomist carefully examined the insects, using the dichotomous key to key out the species and determine its classification.
- Using a combination of morphological features and DNA analysis, the researchers were able to key out the new species of bacteria.
- After observing the arrangement of the petals and the number of stamens, the horticulturist was able to key out the unknown plant and determine its proper care.