Execute: meaning, definitions and examples

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execute

 

[ ˈɛksɪˌkjuːt ]

Verb / Noun
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.

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

Etymology

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.