Hotkeys: meaning, definitions and examples

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hotkeys

[ˈhɒtˌkiː ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computer shortcuts

Hotkeys are combinations of one or more keys that, when pressed simultaneously, perform a specific function within a software application or operating system. Hotkeys are designed to improve efficiency and productivity by allowing users to quickly access commonly used features or commands.

Synonyms

keyboard shortcuts, shortcut keys.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hotkeys	Informally or casually referring to any keys on a keyboard set up for quick access to certain functions. Often used in gaming or software discussions. You can set up hotkeys for your favorite actions in the game. Are there any hotkeys for copy and paste?
shortcut keys	A slightly less technical term than 'keyboard shortcuts', often used interchangeably but can be found in less formal instructions or conversations. Do you know any shortcut keys for this program? I use shortcut keys to speed up my work.
keyboard shortcuts	A more formal and technical term for predefined keys or combinations of keys designed to perform quick tasks. Common in user manuals, tutorials, and instructional documents. For efficiency, learn the keyboard shortcuts in this software. Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time.

Word

Description / Examples

hotkeys

Informally or casually referring to any keys on a keyboard set up for quick access to certain functions. Often used in gaming or software discussions.

You can set up hotkeys for your favorite actions in the game.
Are there any hotkeys for copy and paste?

shortcut keys

A slightly less technical term than 'keyboard shortcuts', often used interchangeably but can be found in less formal instructions or conversations.

Do you know any shortcut keys for this program?
I use shortcut keys to speed up my work.

keyboard shortcuts

A more formal and technical term for predefined keys or combinations of keys designed to perform quick tasks. Common in user manuals, tutorials, and instructional documents.

For efficiency, learn the keyboard shortcuts in this software.
Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time.

Examples of usage

Pressing Ctrl + C to copy text is a common hotkey in many applications.
Using Alt + Tab to switch between open windows is another useful hotkey shortcut.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'hotkey' combines 'hot,' meaning quick or active, and 'key,' referring to a button on a keyboard.
Before 'hotkeys', similar concepts were known as 'keyboard shortcuts', which date back to the early days of computing.

Technology

Hotkeys enhance workflow efficiency by allowing users to perform tasks like copy and paste by pressing just a few buttons.
Many programs allow customization of hotkeys, enabling users to create their preferred shortcuts for improved productivity.

Gaming

In gaming, hotkeys are essential for executing complex moves with just a single key press, allowing for faster gameplay.
Certain games incorporate 'macro' hotkeys, enabling players to perform a series of actions with one key stroke.

Psychology

Using hotkeys can reduce cognitive load and increase focus, as it minimizes the need to shift attention between keyboard and mouse.
The repetitive action of using hotkeys can help form muscle memory over time, making tasks feel more intuitive.

Pop Culture

The rise of software like Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Excel popularized hotkeys, often showcased in tutorials and online communities.
Streamers and online gamers frequently emphasize hotkeys in their content for viewers aiming to improve their own gaming skills.

Translations

Translations of the word "hotkeys" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teclas de atalho

🇮🇳 शॉर्टकट कुंजियाँ

🇩🇪 Tastenkombinationen

🇮🇩 tombol pintas

🇺🇦 гарячі клавіші

🇵🇱 skróty klawiszowe

🇯🇵 ホットキー

🇫🇷 raccourcis clavier

🇪🇸 teclas de acceso rápido

🇹🇷 kısayol tuşları

🇰🇷 단축키

🇸🇦 مفاتيح الاختصار

🇨🇿 klávesové zkratky

🇸🇰 klávesové skratky

🇨🇳 快捷键

🇸🇮 bližnjice na tipkovnici

🇮🇸 flýtilyklar

🇰🇿 қысқа пернелер

🇬🇪 ხარისხიანი კლავიშები

🇦🇿 qısa düymələr

🇲🇽 teclas de acceso rápido