Action: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate in general situations where something is being done or accomplished. Often used in both informal and formal contexts.

• We need to take immediate action to address this issue.
• His swift action prevented a disaster.

Used when referring to a specific type of task or tasks someone might do, either for work, hobbies, or general engagements.

• The children's favorite activity is playing soccer.
• Physical activity is important for maintaining health.

Best used for a specific, often notable or significant act, especially in formal or literary contexts. Can have a moral connotation, either positive or negative.

• Her charitable deeds won her great respect.
• The villain's evil deeds were finally exposed.

Referring to the amount of energy or work put into accomplishing something. Can be used in both personal and professional contexts.

• His effort to finish the project on time was commendable.
• Despite her best efforts, she couldn't solve the problem.

A general term referring to the process of doing something or taking steps to achieve a goal. It can be used in various contexts including everyday activities, business, or legal matters.

• The company plans to take action to improve customer service
• His quick action saved the day

Used to describe a legal action taken by one party against another in a court of law. Typically used when referring to a formal complaint or dispute brought to court.

• She filed a lawsuit against the company for discrimination
• The lawsuit was settled out of court

A formal term referring to any process or action taken in a court of law. It encompasses all the steps and activities involved in resolving a legal matter.

• The legal proceedings lasted several months
• He was required to attend the legal proceedings as a witness

Typically used to describe an instance of a particular situation or event, often in a legal or medical context. It refers to a specific situation that is being considered or investigated.

• The case went to court yesterday
• The doctor discussed an interesting medical case with us

Use when referring to initiating or taking steps in response to a situation or event. It can imply urgency or a proactive approach.

• We need to take immediate action to address the issue
• The team decided to action the plan as soon as possible

Best used when discussing the initiation and establishment of plans, policies, or systems into practice. It implies putting something into operational use.

• The company will implement new security measures next month
• The team worked hard to implement the new software across all departments

Often used in professional or technical environments to mean successfully performing or completing a specific plan, task, or function. Can sometimes imply precision or rigor.

• The developers executed the project flawlessly
• She was responsible for executing the marketing strategy

Appropriate for talking about completing tasks, duties, or responsibilities, usually following instructions or a pre-defined plan.

• The scientist will carry out the experiment tomorrow
• He was asked to carry out the manager's instructions