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 Anthropic’s Computer Use capability allows its technology to interpret what’s on a computer screen, select buttons, enter text, navigate websites and execute tasks through any software and real-time internet browsing, the startup said. Hayden Field, CNBC, 3 Mar. 2025 Currently, there are no specifics as to how much land has been burned or the size of the crew executing the prescribed fire. Ca Wildfire Bot, Sacramento Bee, 2 Mar. 2025 This results in a situation where all the major decisions and ideas come directly from the leader, and the team is there just to execute the executive’s orders. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025 His role was to judge who had executed the best guest bedroom makeover — Christina and her design team or her competition: her first ex-husband Tarek El Moussa, 43, and his wife, Heather Rae El Moussa, 37. Mackenzie Schmidt, People.com, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for execute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for execute
Verb
  • The Supreme Court struck down an emergency request by Biden to enforce the rewrite in states that defied the rewrite in August.
    Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 9 Mar. 2025
  • In other words, while the law guarantees a loan forgiveness program for public servants, the executive branch may be able to define some terms and enforce regulations – which is what Trump is attempting to do.
    Shahar Ziv, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • According to a probable-cause affidavit obtained by NJ.com, troopers performing a load securement check asked to examine how the tractor-trailer’s doors were sealed.
    Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 27 Feb. 2025
  • Hastings studied at the Berklee College of Music and wrote and performed in the Groundlings sketch comedy/improv group before starting a career in animation.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 27 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Trent, who once attempted to assassinate Bradford back upstairs on earth, finally finds confirmation that Bradford and his administration have lied about the lack of survivors on earth.
    Jen Chaney, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025
  • Despite Sidao’s removal from power in 1275 (he was assassinated), the Mongols continued their successful military campaigns, culminating in the collapse of the Southern Song dynasty in 1279.
    Scott Travers, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • The real question is not whether AI can improve communication but whether organizations will implement it in a way that enhances authenticity rather than stifling it.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2025
  • Companies are required to send out a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notice before implementing mass layoffs.
    Dan Perry, Newsweek, 1 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • That’s because despite Casey Anthony being found not guilty in 2011 of allegedly murdering her 2-year-old daughter, Caylee, conventional wisdom holds that she almost certainly was involved in Caylee’s disappearance and death.
    Aja Romano, Vox, 4 Mar. 2025
  • However, Sam is murdered by Carl Brunner (Goldwyn), leaving him to returns as a ghost, who is unable to communicate with Molly.
    Michelle Lee, People.com, 4 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Cal Fire captain begged for mercy during slaying captured on video, officials say.
    Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2025
  • Some were slain by their captors and some were killed in Israel's offenses.
    Reuters, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Running a bed and breakfast fulfills a long-time dream of hers.
    Jennifer Liu, CNBC, 28 Feb. 2025
  • The service will aim to fulfill the original mission of Fubo.
    Dade Hayes, Deadline, 28 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Using archival newspaper reports and interviews with a local historian, here’s a blow-by-blow recreation of the Ashley Gang’s demise — from Sept. 12, 1924, the day of the Bank of Pompano robbery, to Nov. 1, 1924, the day police killed the gangsters.
    Phillip Valys, Sun Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2025
  • In recent years, the state has passed several amendments giving more leeway to killing black bears out of self-defense.
    Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 1 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Execute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/execute. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

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