1. Key: This is the most common meaning, similar to the English word "key." It can refer to a physical key for opening a lock, a musical key, or even a metaphorical key to understanding something.
* "Necesito una llave para abrir la puerta." (I need a key to open the door.)
* "La canción está en la clave de Sol." (The song is in the key of G.)
* "La clave para el éxito es la perseverancia." (The key to success is perseverance.)
2. Code: This meaning is related to a secret code, or a set of instructions for deciphering something.
* "La clave del mensaje es 'amor'." (The code for the message is "love.")
* "El espía tenía la clave para acceder al sistema." (The spy had the code to access the system.)
3. Rhythmic pattern: In music, especially in Latin American music, "clave" refers to a specific rhythmic pattern that acts as a foundation for the music.
* "La clave es un elemento fundamental en la salsa." (The clave is a fundamental element in salsa music.)
4. Other meanings: In certain contexts, "clave" can also refer to:
* "Clave" in a keyhole (Spanish: "cerradura"): The part of the keyhole that receives the key.
* "Clave" as a nail: This meaning is less common.
To understand the exact meaning of "clave" in a sentence, you need to consider the context and the surrounding words.