Lowkey vs Highkey: What’s the Difference?
The difference at a glance
Lowkey indicates something done subtly or meant to be kept quiet. Highkey is used to emphasize something that is obvious, intentional, or meant to be announced openly.
Example sentences are illustrative learning examples, not verified quotations.
What does Lowkey mean?
adverb / adjective · /ˈloʊ.kiː/
Used to indicate something is done subtly or with restraint. As an adverb: 'I lowkey love that song' — meaning privately, more than I'd openly admit. As an adjective: 'it was a lowkey evening' — relaxed, unstudied.
Explore LowkeyLowkey in a sentence
I lowkey missed the old version of the city, even though I know it was worse.
It was a lowkey party — exactly what everyone needed.
What does Highkey mean?
adverb · /ˈhaɪ.kiː/
Used to indicate something is felt or expressed openly and intensely — the opposite of lowkey. 'Highkey obsessed' means fully, admittedly, unapologetically so.
Explore HighkeyHighkey in a sentence
I highkey think this is the best album of the decade.
She was highkey stressed about the interview and wasn't hiding it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Lowkey and Highkey?
Lowkey indicates something done subtly or meant to be kept quiet. Highkey is used to emphasize something that is obvious, intentional, or meant to be announced openly.
What does Lowkey mean?
Used to indicate something is done subtly or with restraint. As an adverb: 'I lowkey love that song' — meaning privately, more than I'd openly admit. As an adjective: 'it was a lowkey evening' — relaxed, unstudied.
What does Highkey mean?
Used to indicate something is felt or expressed openly and intensely — the opposite of lowkey. 'Highkey obsessed' means fully, admittedly, unapologetically so.