Accomplish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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accomplish

[əˈkʌmplɪʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a work setting

to successfully achieve a goal or complete a task

Synonyms

achieve, attain, complete, fulfill.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
accomplish

Used when talking about completing a task or goal successfully, often implying effort and skill.

  • She managed to accomplish the project ahead of the deadline.
  • They accomplished their mission despite the obstacles.
achieve

Used when referring to reaching a goal, especially one that requires effort, skill, or courage.

  • He achieved his dream of becoming a doctor.
  • They achieved remarkable success in their business.
attain

Often used in formal contexts to indicate reaching or arriving at a specific level, status, or goal after effort.

  • She attained a high level of proficiency in Spanish.
  • He finally attained the rank of manager.
fulfill

Refers to meeting a requirement, promise, or expectation. Often used in more abstract or emotional contexts.

  • He fulfilled his promise to help his friend.
  • She felt fulfilled by her work as a teacher.
complete

Used when referring to finishing something that was started, emphasizing the end of a task or process.

  • She completed her homework before dinner.
  • They completed the construction of the building last month.

Examples of usage

  • She accomplished her sales target for the month.
  • He accomplished a major project ahead of schedule.
Context #2 | Verb

in a personal context

to bring to a successful conclusion; carry out successfully

Synonyms

achieve, complete, fulfill, realize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
accomplish

Used when talking about completing a task or goal successfully, often after effort or planning.

  • She was able to accomplish her mission despite the obstacles
  • They accomplished their goal of finishing the project on time
achieve

Typically used when reaching a high standard or level of success. Often implies significant effort and skill.

  • He achieved his dream of becoming a doctor
  • The team achieved their target sales for the quarter
fulfill

Often used in the context of meeting obligations, requirements, or satisfying needs and aspirations.

  • He fulfilled his promise to help his friend move
  • This job helps her fulfill her creative potential
complete

Used for finishing something in its entirety, with no parts left unfinished. It can refer to both significant and trivial tasks.

  • Please complete your homework before dinner
  • She completed the puzzle in record time
realize

Used for making something that was imagined or planned come true, often focusing on the process of making it a reality.

  • She realized her dream of opening her own bakery
  • They realized their vision for a sustainable community

Examples of usage

  • He accomplished his dream of traveling the world.
  • She accomplished her goal of running a marathon.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Setting small goals can enhance your ability to accomplish larger tasks as achieving smaller ones builds confidence.
  • Research shows that the feeling of accomplishment releases dopamine, a chemical that promotes happiness and motivation.

Pop Culture

  • Many motivational speakers emphasize the importance of setting and accomplishing personal goals, showcasing success stories in media.
  • Accomplishment-themed stories and films often highlight underdogs who overcome challenges, inspiring audiences everywhere.

Education

  • Students often achieve a sense of accomplishment when they turn in a well-done project, reinforcing the value of hard work.
  • Accomplishing tasks leads to greater engagement in learning, as students feel rewarded for their efforts.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often face challenges that they must accomplish to grow, symbolizing personal growth.
  • Many authors use the theme of accomplishment to highlight the journey of their protagonists from struggle to success.

Origin of 'accomplish'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French word 'acomplir,' meaning 'to fulfill or finish.'
  • Its roots can be traced back to Latin 'ad' (to) and 'complere' (to fill up), implying completing something fully.

The word 'accomplish' originated from the Latin word 'accomplere', which means 'to complete'. Over time, the meaning of 'accomplish' has evolved to represent successfully achieving a goal or completing a task. The term is commonly used in both professional and personal contexts to denote the successful completion of objectives or aspirations.


See also: accomplished, accomplishing, accomplishment, accomplishments, unaccomplished.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,897, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.