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 The startup said the tool can interpret what’s on a computer screen, select buttons, enter text, navigate websites and execute tasks through any software and real-time internet browsing. Annie Palmer,hayden Field, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2025 Evidence that authorities collected while executing the warrant was transferred back to Cumberland County. Audrey Conklin, FOXNews.com, 31 Mar. 2025 As Pressly tried to work through the jam, the veteran focused on not panicking, remaining calm and executing his pitches. Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2025 Just as startups require the right co-founders, family offices need the right mix of talent, trust, and governance to execute their vision. Francois Botha, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for execute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for execute
Verb
  • The agency is responsible for policy and programs that address the nation’s housing needs and enforce fair housing laws.
    Julia Mueller, The Hill, 14 Apr. 2025
  • School police officers at Florida International University will soon begin training to learn how to enforce immigration laws on campus.
    Clara-Sophia Daly, Miami Herald, 12 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • But while most saw the moment as a liberating one for women, Horsell saw it as another instance of a female playing top-level sport without the necessary support to perform at her best.
    Asif Burhan, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • To perform a squat pulse, start with your feet hip-width apart.
    Jordan Smith, SELF, 14 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The expiration date marks the day the Prime Minister of Granada, Maurice Bishop, was assassinated by a firing squad, which was followed by a U.S. military invasion.
    R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025
  • One 1964 document showed that two intelligence assets discussed potentially assassinating Castro under the administration of President Lyndon Johnson.
    David Brennan, ABC News, 19 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • These sessions provide personalized support to help authors implement strategies, stay accountable, and refine their approach over time.
    Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The company implemented diversity goals, cleared years of freelancer debt, and committed to becoming carbon-neutral within five years.
    Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Michael Dukakis’ response to a campaign debate question about his opposition to the death penalty, even if Kitty Dukakis were raped and murdered, was blamed as part of the reason for his loss.
    Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, 22 Mar. 2025
  • However, this came to an end in 2019 when Andrew, who had since remarried, was put on trial and accused of murdering and disposing of Debbie's body.
    Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 21 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Use logic and math to determine who slays the most orcs and rank them from greatest to least.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025
  • To finally slay that demon and experience it with Elliot.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 16 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Any individuals who do fulfill those three traits are then assessed by a list of factors, including self-admission, criminal conduct and communications.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Playing in college will fulfill a longtime dream for Waldusky.
    Sam Brief, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Renee Moore worked near the building and relied on its daycare for her 6-month-old son Antonio Cooper Jr., who was among those killed.
    Erin Jensen, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Alhadeff's sister, 14-year-old Alyssa, was one of the 17 people killed in the 2018 Parkland high school massacre in South Florida.
    Emily Shapiro, ABC News, 18 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Execute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/execute. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

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