accomplish - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
accomplish Word Meanings
- to complete successfully
- to achieve a goal
- to fulfill a task
accomplish Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
accomplish Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈkɒmplɪʃ/
US
/əˈkɑmplɪʃ/
accomplish Word Etymology
accomplish = ad- (to) + complere (fill up). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Picture achieving a goal by 'filling up' your list of tasks.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the kitchen timer, move the hands and push the dish into the oven, turn the heat down a notch, and keep an eye on the clock. The plan shifts from scattered ideas to a neat sequence as I adjust one detail after another, placing each task into its place. The hands feel steady, the mind tuned to small decisions, a breath kept calm as I hold pace and focus. When the timer finally rings and the last task is set, I sense I can accomplish the goal, and the work feels real and done.
Real Context
Accomplish means to bring a plan or task to a successful finish, and in everyday English it is used to talk about turning intentions into concrete results. It implies more than simply finishing something; it stresses that you achieved a desired outcome, met a standard, or completed a demanding effort. You accomplish a goal, a project, or a duty, often after effort, planning, and perseverance. Learners should note that accomplish is active and takes a direct object, and compare it with finish or do to choose the right nuance in different contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Use accomplish for completing a goal or task successfully.
- It is followed by a direct object like a goal, task, or objective.
- Compare with 'achieve' (broader) and 'complete' (finish the steps) to choose the right nuance.
- Active verb: subject accomplishes something.
- Common collocations: accomplish a goal, accomplish a task, accomplish one's objectives.
Common Misconceptions
- Believing 'accomplish' just means to finish something; it often implies success, not mere completion.
- Thinking it cannot be used for personal goals (it's fine to say 'accomplish a goal').
- Confusing with 'achieve' or 'complete'; 'accomplish' emphasizes successful results and milestones.
- Often used in formal writing or business contexts; casual speech might use 'do' or 'finish'.
- Requires the right object: you accomplish a task or a goal, not a feeling or mood.
Thinking Differences
Explains how English treats accomplishment as a concrete result tied to a specific target, emphasizing action and measurable outcomes; learners may default to lighter verbs like do or finish and miss the sense of milestone and pride.
Learning Tips
- Practice with concrete goals: set and track progress toward a real objective.
- Pair with a direct object: accomplish a task, accomplish a goal, accomplish a plan.
- Notice the formal tone; use in professional writing and presentations.
- Differentiate from finish and do by focusing on the outcome and milestones.
- Use in past tense to show completion: accomplished, not accomplishedta?
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'accomplish' mean?
A.To start
B.To finish
C.To try
D.To fail
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'accomplish' used correctly?
A.She failed to accomplish her goals.
B.He never tried to accomplish anything.
C.They accomplished the task successfully.
D.We are starting to accomplish our project.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which is a synonym of 'accomplish'?
A.Complete
B.Abandon
C.Begin
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'accomplish'?
A.Achieve
B.Conclude
C.Fail
D.Succeed
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'accomplish' in a real-life context?
A.I prefer to accomplish tasks halfway.
B.I start to accomplish my homework.
C.I will accomplish my goals by procrastinating.
D.I need to accomplish my work before the deadline.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App