accomplish

Definition of accomplishnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb accomplish contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of accomplish are achieve, discharge, effect, execute, fulfill, and perform. While all these words mean "to carry out or into effect," accomplish stresses the successful completion of a process rather than the means of carrying it out.

accomplished everything they set out to do

How are the words achieve and accomplish related?

Achieve adds to accomplish the implication of conquered difficulties.

achieve greatness

When might discharge be a better fit than accomplish?

The synonyms discharge and accomplish are sometimes interchangeable, but discharge implies execution and completion of appointed duties or tasks.

discharged his duties

How do effect and achieve relate to one another, in the sense of accomplish?

Effect adds to achieve an emphasis on the inherent force in the agent capable of surmounting obstacles.

effected sweeping reforms

When can execute be used instead of accomplish?

While in some cases nearly identical to accomplish, execute stresses the carrying out of what exists in plan or in intent.

executed the hit-and-run

In what contexts can fulfill take the place of accomplish?

The words fulfill and accomplish are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fulfill implies a complete realization of ends or possibilities.

fulfilled their ambitions

When could perform be used to replace accomplish?

The words perform and accomplish can be used in similar contexts, but perform implies action that follows established patterns or procedures or fulfills agreed-upon requirements and often connotes special skill.

performed gymnastics

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of accomplish At some point this winter — maybe a few days, maybe a few weeks — melancholy will fade and Hurricanes fans will be able to appreciate all that was accomplished during a season when UM got back its good name and returned to prominence. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 20 Jan. 2026 Each year, accomplished CAS members—who possess extensive expertise in the art and science of sound—review hundreds of submissions to ensure the nominees represent the highest standards of achievement in cinematic sound. Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 20 Jan. 2026 Cignetti accomplished what few imagined could be done — at least not this quickly. Alanis Thames, Chicago Tribune, 20 Jan. 2026 Henrik Sedin became the 85th player in NHL history to reach 1,000 points, and the 38th to accomplish the feat with one franchise. Senior Editor, Los Angeles Times, 20 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for accomplish
Recent Examples of Synonyms for accomplish
Verb
  • Though designers will still prioritize efficiency, the triangle might not always be the default layout to achieve what a homeowner wants.
    Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026
  • In theory, this engine could achieve escape velocity from the Solar System, but would also produce considerable heat and radiation that would need to be safely contained.
    Matthew S Williams, Interesting Engineering, 10 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Even though Shane and Ilya don’t suddenly become public and proud gay hockey icons like Scott Hunter by the end of the season, Tierney still manages to fulfill the compensatory and combative requirements of the romance genre through two moving declarations of love.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Jan. 2026
  • During closing arguments on Wednesday morning, a prosecutor urged the jury to convict in order to send a message that law enforcement must fulfill their duty to protect when a gunman threatens children.
    CBS News, CBS News, 21 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The project will serve as a pilot for the city’s Project Labor Agreement ordinance, with most construction performed by union workers.
    Walker Armstrong, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026
  • The brand will launch with its full product assortment in the region, though marketing will emphasize top-performing categories — blush, complexion, bronzer, tools and glow essentials — which align with existing regional DTC demand.
    Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 13 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Now, Braddy's case is back in court, with a jury once again weighing whether he should be executed.
    Nicole Acosta, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Rodarte, while executing a search warrant at an Olivehurst home the morning of March 26, was killed by a single gunshot, which authorities said was fired by Rick David Oliver.
    Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Once that’s done and completely turned off, use a small brush to clean around the disposal and inside it.
    Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 16 Jan. 2026
  • Warriors coach Steve Kerr spent most of Thursday’s pregame press conference doing his best to downplay multiple reports that Jonathan Kuminga requested a trade away from Golden State.
    Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 16 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The president said Thursday that the two mortgage giants under government conservatorship, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, have $200 billion in cash that will be used to make the mortgage bond purchases.
    CBS News, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Ball certainly didn’t have any issue getting into the action, posting a team-best 11 first-quarter points on the strength of making his first three attempts and banking in a running 3-pointer off the glass at the buzzer, signaling the conclusion of the game’s initial 12 minutes.
    Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The existing program was implemented in 2024 and is in effect for two years.
    CBS News, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Accomplish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/accomplish. Accessed 22 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on accomplish

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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