Comply: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

comply

 

[ kəmˈplaɪ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

to obey rules or orders

Comply means to do what is asked of you or to act in accordance with a set of rules or regulations. It implies following instructions or conforming to a certain standard.

Synonyms

adhere to, conform, follow, obey.

Examples of usage

  • He refused to comply with the new regulations.
  • She complied with the teacher's instructions.
  • They are required to comply with safety regulations at all times.
Context #2 | Verb

to yield to a request or demand

Comply can also mean to agree to a request or demand, usually by doing what someone asks of you. It suggests giving in to someone else's wishes.

Synonyms

accede, concede, submit, yield.

Examples of usage

  • She complied with his request for a meeting.
  • The company agreed to comply with the customer's demands.
  • He finally complied with her plea for help.

Translations

Translations of the word "comply" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cumprir

🇮🇳 पालन करना

🇩🇪 einhalten

🇮🇩 mematuhi

🇺🇦 виконувати

🇵🇱 przestrzegać

🇯🇵 従う

🇫🇷 se conformer

🇪🇸 cumplir

🇹🇷 uymak

🇰🇷 따르다

🇸🇦 الامتثال

🇨🇿 dodržovat

🇸🇰 dodržiavať

🇨🇳 遵守

🇸🇮 spoštovati

🇮🇸 fylgja

🇰🇿 орындау

🇬🇪 დასრულება

🇦🇿 riayət etmək

🇲🇽 cumplir

Etymology

The word 'comply' originated from the Latin word 'complere' which means 'to fulfill'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in English to denote obedience or agreement. The concept of compliance has been integral in various aspects of society, from legal and regulatory compliance to interpersonal relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,426, 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.