fulfill - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
fulfill Word Meanings
- to complete something as promised
- to meet a requirement
- to bring to realization
fulfill Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
fulfill Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fʊlˈfɪl/
US
/fʊlˈfɪl/
fulfill Word Etymology
Full + fill = to fill completely. Origin from Old English 'fyllan' meaning 'to fill up'. Imagine a cup being filled to the brim until it's overflowing.
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 loop my fingers around the plan and set my shoulders, then I push forward as the day starts. The pages move under my eyes as I move from one task to the next, and I adjust the pace when a snag appears. The effort presses in my chest, yet I keep steady, a quiet pull toward what I promised to do. Each completed step makes the bigger goal feel closer, and that is how a plan can fulfill itself in real time.
Real Context
Fulfill is a versatile verb that centers on meeting an obligation, promise, or condition, and on turning an intention into reality. In everyday English you might say you fulfilled a promise, a duty, or a requirement, or that a plan was fulfilled by bringing it to fruition. It often carries a sense of responsibility and a standard that has to be met, rather than merely completing a task. Spelling differences exist between American English fulfill and British English fulfil, though both are correct. Learners often confuse fulfill with finish or complete, especially when referring to projects, which can dilute the nuance of obligation and expectation.
Usage Reminders
- Use fulfil with promises, duties, requirements, and goals
- Learn common collocations: fulfill a promise, fulfill a duty, fulfill a requirement, fulfill a goal
- Don’t use fulfill for simple tasks; use finish or complete instead
- Spelling matters: fulfil (British) vs fulfill (American)
- In formal writing, favor fulfill/fulfil when speaking about obligations or contracts
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking fulfill for finish: they are related but not interchangeable in promises/obligations.
- Thinking fulfill means 'to complete any task' rather than 'to meet a standard or promise'.
- Confusing fulfil with 'satisfy' in all contexts; use 'satisfy' for needs or desires, not obligations.
- Assuming fulfill is less formal than meet; in contracts, both are common, but tone differs.
- Overgeneralizing to represent all achievements; reserve for commitments, requirements, and promises.
Thinking Differences
Fulfill in English centers on meeting a formal standard, promise, or obligation; it conveys responsibility and obligation beyond mere action. Learners often mix it with 'finish' or 'complete' when talking about tasks, which shifts the focus from obligation to output.
Learning Tips
- Memorize key collocations: fulfill a promise, fulfill a duty, fulfill a requirement, fulfill a goal
- Differentiate fulfill from finish/complete when talking about obligations
- Note British vs American spellings: fulfil vs fulfill
- Practice contracts or formal statements to hear the formal nuance
- Use context clues to decide if it means meeting a standard or simply finishing
- Read a contract or proposal to spot fulfill in action
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'fulfill'?
A.To break
B.To fail
C.To stop
D.To complete
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'fulfill': She worked hard to ________ her dreams of becoming a doctor.
A.To break
B.To complete
C.To fail
D.To stop
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'fulfill'?
A.Cancel
B.Delay
C.Abandon
D.Achieve
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'fulfill'?
A.Satisfy
B.Disappoint
C.Accomplish
D.Fulfillment
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone need to fulfill a promise?
A.Cooking dinner
B.Finishing a book
C.Keeping a secret
D.Keeping a commitment
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