Hey guys,

I'd like to ask you about two words LOW-KEY and HIGH-KEY.

Can we use it as a slang (I think this is mainly used in the US) in the sentence:

I LOW-KEY want to see Barbie - meaning I kind of want to see Barbie.
I HIGH-KEY want to see Oppenheimer - meaning I really want to see Oppenheimer.

Question

Hey guys,

I'd like to ask you about two words LOW-KEY and HIGH-KEY.

Can we use it as a slang (I think this is mainly used in the US) in the sentence:

I LOW-KEY want to see Barbie - meaning I kind of want to see Barbie.
I HIGH-KEY want to see Oppenheimer - meaning I really want to see Oppenheimer.

Answer

Absolutely, you've understood the usage correctly! "Low-key" and "high-key" are slang terms commonly used in informal conversations, particularly in the US.

In your sentences:

1. "I LOW-KEY want to see Barbie." - This means you have a subtle or understated desire to see Barbie. It conveys a moderate level of interest.

2. "I HIGH-KEY want to see Oppenheimer." - This indicates a strong and overt desire to see Oppenheimer. It expresses a high level of enthusiasm.

These terms are employed to communicate varying degrees of intensity or emphasis in a more casual and relatable way.

Answer

I am a native speaker and we never say "high-key."

But your use of "low-key" is correct.

Good luck!