Execute Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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execute

[ˈɛksɪˌkjuːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in programming

To carry out or accomplish a set of instructions or a program on a computer. It involves the computer interpreting and performing the specified tasks.

Synonyms

carry out, implement, perform, run.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
execute	Used in formal or legal contexts, often implies precision and adherence to a plan. The engineer will execute the project according to the specifications. The court order needs to be executed without delay.
perform	General term suitable for a variety of activities and can refer to skills or tasks. The surgeon will perform the operation tomorrow. The musician performed beautifully at the concert.
carry out	Common in everyday language, implies completing a task or duty. The manager asked him to carry out the assigned tasks. Research was carried out to understand the effects of the new drug.
implement	Common in business or technical contexts, focuses on the process of putting a plan or system into action. The company decided to implement a new marketing strategy. We need to implement these changes by the end of the month.
run	Informal, often used in the context of operating machinery, systems, or events. She will run the new software tonight. They run a cafe downtown.

Examples of usage

The program will execute once you press the 'Run' button.
Please execute the code to see the output.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in law

To carry out or fulfill a legal document, such as a will or contract.

Synonyms

enact, fulfill, implement, sign.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
execute	Use 'execute' when talking about completing a task, command, or plan, often with a sense of precision and efficiency. The manager executed the new project plan flawlessly. He was able to execute the complex programming code without errors.
fulfill	Use 'fulfill' when talking about meeting requirements, hopes, or expectations, often related to promises, duties, or desires. She managed to fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor. They worked hard to fulfill their financial obligations.
enact	Use 'enact' when referring to the process of making something into law or officially putting something into effect through legislation. The government will enact new regulations to improve public safety. The board decided to enact the new policy next month.
implement	Use 'implement' when discussing the practical application or introduction of a plan, decision, or method. The company will implement the new software system next quarter. They implemented new strategies to enhance productivity.
sign	Use 'sign' when referring to the act of writing one's name on a document to indicate agreement or approval. She signed the contract to finalize the deal. The president will sign the bill into law tomorrow.

Examples of usage

The lawyer will execute the contract on behalf of the client.
The executor of the will must execute the deceased's wishes.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in military

A command given by a military authority to carry out a specific operation or mission.

Synonyms

command, directive, instruction, order.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
execute	Used when performing a task or completing a specific action. The software will execute the commands given by the user. He was able to execute the plan flawlessly.
order	Used to give a strong command in a hierarchical situation, sometimes with a sense of authority. The officer gave an order to retreat. She placed an order for new office supplies.
command	Used when giving authoritative orders, often in military or technical settings. The general issued a command to advance. You can use this button to command the device to start.
directive	Used for official instructions, especially in formal or bureaucratic settings. The school issued a new directive on student behavior. He followed the directive from the board without hesitation.
instruction	Used when giving detailed information on how to do something, often step-by-step. Please read the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture. The teacher provided clear instructions for the experiment.

Examples of usage

The general issued an execute to the troops to advance.
The execute was successful and the mission was completed.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Law

In legal terms, executing a document means signing it to make it official or enforceable.
The term can refer to carrying out a court order, particularly in criminal cases.
In some jurisdictions, execution has historically referred to carrying out capital punishment.

Technology

In computer science, to execute code means to run a program or perform the commands written in a programming language.
Execution in programming is crucial for the computation process, with each line of code representing instructions to be performed.
Errors during execution can lead to program crashes or unintended behaviors, highlighting the importance of debugging.

Art and Performance

In the performing arts, executing a performance means delivering it as rehearsed, capturing the intended emotion and artistry.
Musicians focus on the execution of their pieces to convey emotion and technical skill during performances.
Choreographers emphasize the execution of dance movements to ensure clarity and expression on stage.

Business and Management

In a business context, executing a strategy involves implementing plans to achieve specific goals.
Effective execution is critical for the success of projects and often distinguishes successful companies from less successful ones.
Leaders focus on execution through management practices that ensure resources are properly allocated and tasks are completed.

Origin of 'execute'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'exsequi', meaning 'to follow through' or 'to perform'.
It entered the English language around the 14th century, first used in the context of executing documents or wills.
Over time, its meaning expanded to include carrying out plans and actions in various contexts.

The word 'execute' originates from the Latin word 'executus', which means 'carried out'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, its usage has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings across various fields, from programming to law and military operations.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,154 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5151 recipient
5152 derive
5153 symbolic
5154 execute
5155 destructive
5156 permitting
5157 outlet
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