Carry out: meaning, definitions and examples

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carry out

 

[ ˈkæri aʊt ]

Phrasal verb
Context #1 | Phrasal verb

in a task or duty

to complete or accomplish a task or duty

Synonyms

execute, fulfill, perform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
carry out

Used to indicate that a task or plan has been put into action and completed.

  • They will carry out the experiment tomorrow.
  • The construction workers carried out the plans as designed by the architect.
execute

Often used in formal or technical contexts to describe the precise and effective completion of tasks, especially in law, programming, or military operations.

  • The company plans to execute the merger by the end of the year.
  • The programmer executed the code without any errors.
fulfill

Used to describe the completion of duties, promises, or requirements, often with a sense of satisfaction or achievement.

  • She fulfilled her dream of becoming a doctor.
  • The team worked hard to fulfill all the project requirements.
perform

Typically used when referring to the act of carrying out an action, task, or duty, especially in arts, medicine, or science. Can imply demonstrating skills or abilities.

  • The actor performed wonderfully in the play.
  • The surgeon will perform the operation tomorrow.

Examples of usage

  • The team will carry out the project according to the plan.
  • The police were ordered to carry out the investigation immediately.
Context #2 | Phrasal verb

in an action or order

to perform or follow through with an action or order

Synonyms

conduct, execute, implement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
carry out

This phrase is often used in everyday situations to describe the completion of tasks, instructions, or plans. It is generally neutral in tone.

  • The researchers carried out an experiment to test the new theory.
  • She was asked to carry out the manager's instructions.
implement

This is used mainly in contexts related to policy, strategies, or complex plans, especially in business or governmental settings. It emphasizes the introduction and practical application of a plan or system.

  • The company decided to implement a new marketing strategy.
  • The government will implement the new health regulations next month.
execute

Often used in a technical or strategic context, such as carrying out a plan, project, or operation. It may also have a legal connotation, such as fulfilling legal documents or carrying out a legal decision.

  • The team executed the project flawlessly.
  • The software program will execute the commands as programmed.
conduct

Primarily used in more formal or professional settings, especially when referring to research, studies, or organized activities. It conveys a sense of formality and thoroughness.

  • The scientist conducted a detailed study on climate change.
  • The teacher conducted a survey among the students.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers were ready to carry out their mission.
  • The students were instructed to carry out the experiment as directed.

Translations

Translations of the word "carry out" in other languages:

🇵🇹 realizar

🇮🇳 अंजाम देना

🇩🇪 durchführen

🇮🇩 melaksanakan

🇺🇦 виконувати

🇵🇱 przeprowadzać

🇯🇵 実行する (jikkō suru)

🇫🇷 réaliser

🇪🇸 llevar a cabo

🇹🇷 yürütmek

🇰🇷 수행하다 (suhaenghada)

🇸🇦 تنفيذ (tanfiidh)

🇨🇿 provést

🇸🇰 vykonať

🇨🇳 执行 (zhíxíng)

🇸🇮 izvesti

🇮🇸 framkvæma

🇰🇿 орындау

🇬🇪 შესრულება (shesruleba)

🇦🇿 yerinə yetirmək

🇲🇽 llevar a cabo

Etymology

The term 'carry out' originated in the 16th century, with 'carry' meaning 'to convey or transport' and 'out' used as an adverbial particle indicating completion or direction. Over time, the phrase evolved to signify the completion or execution of a task or action. It has become a common phrasal verb in the English language, widely used in various contexts to describe the successful accomplishment of duties, tasks, or orders.