execute him

USAGE SUMMARY

"execute him" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used in a formal or legal context to describe the act of carrying out a sentence of death. Example: The judge ordered the prisoner to be executed by lethal injection. "Execute him," the warden instructed the guards as they led the prisoner to the execution chamber.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Until now, there isn't an executive order to execute him," said Bosho Dizai, the deputy justice minister.

The New York Times

"They should execute him".

The New York Times

They don't execute him.

The Guardian

Arizona plans to execute him on Wednesday.

The Guardian

And he has dared the Islamic Republic to execute him.

The New York Times

But once again a jury voted to execute him.

The New York Times - Books

"I knew the Americans wouldn't allow them to execute him.

The Guardian

These two charges help to explain the decision to execute him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"When they execute him, I want God to put him back on earth, so they can execute him again," Mr. Muhammad said.

The New York Times

"Every time they execute him, I want God to bring him back to earth".

The New York Times

This would make it illegal to execute him under Indonesian law.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "execute him", ensure the context clearly indicates a formal death sentence or a similarly grave form of punishment. Avoid using it casually or metaphorically to prevent misunderstanding.

Common error

Avoid using "execute him" in informal or figurative contexts. Using it to describe actions other than formal execution can be perceived as insensitive or overly dramatic. For example, instead of saying "I'm going to execute him in this game", use a more appropriate phrase like "I'm going to defeat him".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "execute him" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where 'execute' is a transitive verb requiring a direct object ('him'). It describes the action of carrying out a death sentence. Ludwig AI shows multiple examples in news and media where this phrase is used to report on legal proceedings and outcomes related to capital punishment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

17%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "execute him" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of carrying out a death sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage in various contexts, especially in news and media, where it conveys information about legal proceedings and the implementation of capital punishment. While typically neutral in register, it's important to use the phrase with sensitivity and awareness of its serious implications. Alternatives such as "put him to death" or "carry out his execution" may be used depending on the desired level of formality. As Ludwig's examples illustrate, the phrase is rarely used outside of legal and historical contexts related to capital punishment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carry out his execution

This alternative uses a more formal and descriptive tone, emphasizing the legal process of execution.

put him to death

This phrase is a direct and unambiguous way of expressing the act of killing someone as punishment.

inflict capital punishment on him

This is a highly formal and legalistic way of describing the imposition of the death penalty.

sentence him to death

This alternative focuses on the judicial decision that leads to the execution.

condemn him to die

This phrase emphasizes the judgment and the resulting fate of the person.

order his execution

This version highlights the authority giving the command for the execution.

have him executed

This alternative shifts the focus to the arrangement or facilitation of the execution.

administer the death penalty to him

This phrase is a formal way of describing the process of applying the death penalty.

terminate his life

This is a euphemistic and less direct way of referring to the act of execution.

take his life as punishment

This alternative highlights the justification for the execution as a form of retribution.

FAQs

How is "execute him" typically used?

"Execute him" is generally used in formal contexts to describe the carrying out of a death sentence, usually after a legal trial and conviction. It indicates that the person has been sentenced to death and that the sentence is being implemented.

What are some synonyms for "execute him"?

Alternatives to "execute him" include "put him to death", "carry out his execution", or "sentence him to death". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "execute him" in casual conversation?

Generally, it's best to avoid using "execute him" in casual conversation unless you are specifically discussing legal or historical events related to capital punishment. Using it in other contexts can be seen as insensitive or inappropriate. Instead, opt for less severe alternatives depending on the context.

What is the difference between "execute him" and "kill him"?

"Execute him" implies a formal, legal process resulting in death as a punishment, while "kill him" is a more general term that simply means to cause someone's death, without any implication of legal proceedings or justification. The phrase "kill him" does not necessarily imply a legal sentence.