Fill out Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fill out

[fɪl aʊt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a form

To write information in the spaces on a document, form, etc.

Synonyms

complete, fill-in, populate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fill out	Commonly used when you need to write information in a form or document, usually in all available fields. This phrase is informal and often heard in everyday conversations. Remember to fill out the application form before the deadline. I need to fill out some paperwork at the office.
complete	Used when you need to finish or achieve something fully without missing parts. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Please complete the survey by Friday. She needs to complete her homework before going out.
fill-in	Typically used when providing a specific piece of information in a blank space on a form. It's less common in daily conversations and has a slightly more formal tone than 'fill out'. Can you fill in your name on this sheet? Make sure to fill in all the required fields.
populate	Used in more formal or technical settings, often referring to the insertion of data into a database or form. This word is less commonly used in casual conversation. The IT specialist needs to populate the database with the new entries. Please populate the fields with the relevant data.

Examples of usage

I need to fill out this application form.
Please fill out your name and address on the registration form.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

satisfy a requirement

To satisfy a requirement or meet a need by providing what is necessary.

Synonyms

fulfill, meet, satisfy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fill out	Use this term when referring to completing a form or document by providing necessary information. Please fill out this application form with all your details. He forgot to fill out the survey before the deadline.
fulfill	Use this term when describing the completion or realization of a task, promise, or requirement. She worked hard to fulfill all her job responsibilities. He was able to fulfill his dreams of becoming a pilot.
meet	Use this term when talking about reaching a standard, requirement, or expectation. The project must meet all the client's specifications. They worked overtime to meet the deadline.
satisfy	Use this term when referring to fulfilling a need, desire, or criterion, sometimes implies a sense of contentment. The solution satisfied all the conditions of the problem. A simple meal was enough to satisfy his hunger.

Examples of usage

She was able to fill out the necessary paperwork for the job application.
His experience in the field helped him fill out the criteria for the position.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

shape

The way that someone or something is filled out, in terms of shape or size.

Synonyms

build, form, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fill out	Used when completing a form or document by writing the necessary information. Please fill out this application form She filled out the survey quickly
shape	Used to describe giving form or structure to something, often with a focus on the end result; can also imply influence or modify. The potter shaped the clay into a beautiful vase His experiences shaped his worldview
form	Used when creating something by putting parts together or developing an idea or plan. The artists formed a new collective We need to form a strategy before we proceed
build	Used when creating or constructing something physical or abstract, such as a building, a company, or a relationship. They plan to build a new house She built her career from scratch

Examples of usage

The dress was a perfect fit, with just the right amount of fill out at the waist.
His muscles began to fill out after months of training.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Education

Filling out forms is an essential skill taught in schools, helping students learn to provide personal information accurately.
In many countries, completing forms is a part of civic duties, like registering to vote or applying for government services.

Technology

With the rise of the internet, filling out forms has become a vital part of online activities like signing up for accounts or making purchases.
Many websites use auto-fill features to make it easier for users to fill out forms quickly and accurately.

Psychology

The process of filling out forms can evoke anxiety for some individuals, especially when it involves personal data or high-stakes applications.
It's important to understand that giving personal information has implications and can affect how individuals feel about privacy.

Cultural Practices

In various cultures, filling out forms is tied to formal processes, such as applying for jobs or educational opportunities, highlighting the importance of documentation.
Ceremonial forms, like marriage applications, require filling out as part of cultural traditions in many societies.

Origin of 'fill out'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'fill out' comes from the combination of 'fill', meaning to make full, and 'out', meaning to make something complete.
It has been in use since at least the late 1800s, reflecting the need to complete forms for various purposes in growing bureaucracies.

The term 'fill out' originated in the late 19th century and combines the verb 'fill' with the adverb 'out'. It has its roots in Old English and Middle English, where 'fill' meant 'to put something into a space or container'. Over time, 'fill out' evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including completing forms and satisfying requirements. Today, 'fill out' is commonly used in administrative, academic, and everyday contexts.