Fulfil

Definition

Fulfil (also spelled "fulfill" in American English) means to carry out, or bring to realization, either a predetermined requirement or a specific plan.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fʊlˈfɪl/
• Respelling: fuul-FILL (with "fuul" as in "full" and "FILL" as in "fill")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fʊlˈfɪl/
• Respelling: fuul-FILL (with "fuul" as in "full" and "FILL" as in "fill")

In both dialects, "fulfil" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "FILL." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "fuul-FILL."

Etymology

Derived from the Old English "fullfyllan", where "full" means 'fully' and "fyllan" means 'to fill'.

Derivatives

• Fulfillment (noun) (Fulfilment in British English)
• Fulfiller (noun)
• Fulfilled (adjective)
• Fulfilling (adjective, verb present participle)
• Fulfilment center (noun phrase)

Synonyms

• Accomplish
• Achieve
• Realize

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Abandon
• Fail

Usage

"Fulfil" is widely used in contexts where tasks, promises, or obligations need to be completed or realized. It is often used in both formal and informal settings to indicate the successful completion of something that was expected or required. The American spelling "fulfill" is more commonly used in the United States, while "fulfil" is the standard in British English.

Related Terms

• Satisfaction
• Completion
• Realization
• Achievement
• Execution

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Satisfy a Requirement or Expectation: To carry out or accomplish a duty, promise, or requirement.
  • Example: She worked hard to fulfil all her responsibilities before the deadline.

• To Bring Something into Reality: To make a desire, wish, or dream come true.
  • Example: He finally fulfilled his dream of becoming a published author.

• To Satisfy Someone's Needs or Desires: To provide what is necessary or desired to achieve satisfaction or happiness.
  • Example: The program was designed to fulfil the needs of low-income families.