B2verb2K

Fulfil

UK /["/fʊlˈfɪl/","/fʊlˈfɪlz/","/fʊlˈfɪld/","/fʊlˈfɪlɪŋ/"]/US /["/fʊlˈfɪl/","/fʊlˈfɪlz/","/fʊlˈfɪld/","/fʊlˈfɪlɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to do or achieve what was hoped for or expected

In simple words: to make something happen or to do what is required

Examples

  • She was able to fulfil all the requirements for the scholarship.
  • The company must fulfil its contractual obligations by the end of the month.
  • He finally felt fulfilled after he managed to fulfil his lifelong dream.
  • It is important to fulfil promises to maintain trust.
  • The new policies fulfil the needs of underprivileged communities.

Usage notes

Use 'fulfil' in formal or neutral contexts, such as completing a promise or a requirement. Avoid in casual conversations where simpler terms like 'do' or 'complete' might fit better.

Grammar pattern

fulfil + object

Memory hint

Think of 'fulfill' as 'full fill' — like filling a glass until it's full.

Collocations

  • really
  • completely
  • not quite
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can
  • really
  • completely
  • not quite
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can
  • really
  • completely
  • not quite
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can

Synonyms

  • accomplish
  • execute
  • satisfy
  • realize
  • meet

Antonyms

  • fail
  • neglect

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'fill'.
  • Incorrectly using 'fulfil' without an object.
  • Using 'fulfil' in informal speech.