Execute: meaning, definitions and examples

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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?

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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?

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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?

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "execute" in other languages:

🇵🇹 executar

🇮🇳 निष्पादित करना (nishpadit karna)

🇩🇪 ausführen

🇮🇩 melaksanakan

🇺🇦 виконувати

🇵🇱 wykonać

🇯🇵 実行する (jikkou suru)

🇫🇷 exécuter

🇪🇸 ejecutar

🇹🇷 yürütmek

🇰🇷 실행하다 (silhaenghada)

🇸🇦 تنفيذ (tanfeedh)

🇨🇿 provést

🇸🇰 vykonať

🇨🇳 执行 (zhíxíng)

🇸🇮 izvesti

🇮🇸 framkvæma

🇰🇿 орындау (oryndau)

🇬🇪 გააკეთო (gaaket’o)

🇦🇿 icra etmək

🇲🇽 ejecutar

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.