Synonym Chooser

How does the verb execute contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of execute are accomplish, achieve, discharge, effect, fulfill, and perform. While all these words mean "to carry out or into effect," execute stresses the carrying out of what exists in plan or in intent.

executed the hit-and-run

When is it sensible to use accomplish instead of execute?

While in some cases nearly identical to execute, accomplish stresses the successful completion of a process rather than the means of carrying it out.

accomplished everything they set out to do

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

Achieve adds to accomplish the implication of conquered difficulties.

achieve greatness

When is discharge a more appropriate choice than execute?

The words discharge and execute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, discharge implies execution and completion of appointed duties or tasks.

discharged his duties

How are the words effect and achieve related as synonyms of execute?

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

effected sweeping reforms

In what contexts can fulfill take the place of execute?

The synonyms fulfill and execute are sometimes interchangeable, but fulfill implies a complete realization of ends or possibilities.

fulfilled their ambitions

When might perform be a better fit than execute?

While the synonyms perform and execute are close in meaning, 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 execute Once the current agreement between the governments is formally executed, the rate will fall to 15 percent on Station Wagon and 25 percent on Quartermaster. Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025 As part of the Attorney General’s investigation, a search warrant was executed to search a duffle bag belonging to Wardell, the charging documents state. Kc Baker, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025 The outlet reported that federal agents also executed a search warrant at the school. Meredith Colias-Pete, Chicago Tribune, 2 Sep. 2025 The warrant reviewed by The Bee does not state what, if anything, was ultimately seized, nor when the warrant was executed. Joe Rubin, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for execute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for execute
Verb
  • During my First Term, few were more effective or tenacious than Peter in enforcing my two sacred rules, Buy American, Hire American.
    Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Smart contracts can enforce quality checks, reputation scores, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
    Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Like the rest of the Real Madrid squad, Vinicius Jr did not perform at his usual level last season as Madrid failed to win any of the three major titles, which led to the club replacing Carlo Ancelotti as manager.
    Mario Cortegana, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2025
  • For instance, a technician performing field repairs might look at a piece of broken equipment using smart glasses; the glasses could then use the technician’s PC to connect to the cloud for specialized AI models and technical information.
    Patrick Moorhead, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • There was huge outrage and debate at the time around the idea that the American president could assassinate an American citizen extrajudicially, in violation of his Constitutional rights.
    Carlo Versano, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025
  • The series follows Agent 47, a contract killer who travels to different destinations across the world to assassinate targets.
    George Yang, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Cash remains hopeful that the provision will be implemented later because cameras could both exonerate teachers who have been falsely accused of neglect and provide evidence against those teachers who do not follow state protocols.
    IndyStar, IndyStar, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Common signs of a healthy work environment A thriving workplace doesn’t happen by accident; it’s carefully built by implementing intentional practices that support, empower and value employees.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • This is the most wrestle-centric approach to accomplish that goal.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Perhaps the most impressive thing about the Phillies' latest surge is that it is being accomplished in the wake of a devastating decision for franchise ace Zack Wheeler, who will miss the rest of the season after being diagnosed with a blood clot.
    Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Denying that their output is propaganda & amplifying their messaging spits in the face of those murdered on Oct 7th & props up the Hamas terror regime that continues to punish its own people.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2025
  • Coben explains that Joel, Seth, and Bella were all present at the prom when Joel's sister was murdered.
    EW.com, EW.com, 27 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Mangione is accused of slaying UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson late last year.
    Jonathan Alpert, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Men and boys have been targeted and slain on ethnic grounds.
    Jade Walker, CNN Money, 2 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • But alas, the March 2005 issue had me on the inside of a pullout cover to fulfill their legal obligation.
    Mark Gray, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Buried under the charred rubble on Life Changers Global Ministries’ parking lot is a promise that will be fulfilled, the decades-old south Phoenix church’s pastor is quick to assure.
    Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 4 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Execute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/execute. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

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