to fulfil

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to fulfil" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of completing or achieving something, such as a task, requirement, or promise. Example: "She worked hard to fulfil her dream of becoming a doctor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That promise will be hard to fulfil.

The Economist

There was a family engagement to fulfil.

Independent

"It's difficult to fulfil those hopes.

Independent

Saakashvili seems happy to fulfil that role.

Independent

It's time to fulfil those promises.

The Guardian - Sport

However, they failed to fulfil these conditions.

The Guardian

'Well, you have to fulfil the potential.

The Guardian - Music

"Turkey is supposed to fulfil criteria?

The Guardian

Mike helped me to fulfil that ambition".

The Guardian - Film

This plan has yet to fulfil expectations.

The Guardian - Business

What is it to fulfil one's dreams?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to fulfil" when you want to emphasize the completion of something that was promised, expected, or required, especially in formal contexts. For example, "The company worked hard to fulfil its contractual obligations."

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "fulfil" with "fill". "Fulfil" means to complete or satisfy, while "fill" means to make something full. For example, you fulfil a promise, but you fill a glass with water.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to fulfil" functions as an infinitive, typically used as part of a verb phrase. It indicates an action that needs to be carried out or a goal to be achieved, fitting into the predicate of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to fulfil" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to express the completion or realization of a task, promise, or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted in written English and appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When using "to fulfil", remember to consider the subtle differences between it and similar phrases like "to accomplish" or "to achieve", and avoid confusing it with "fill". Whether you're aiming to complete a project or satisfy an obligation, understanding the nuances of "to fulfil" will enhance your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to accomplish

Highlights the successful completion of something, often requiring effort and skill.

to carry out

Emphasizes the execution of a plan or instruction, often implying a step-by-step process.

to achieve

Suggests reaching a desired goal or standard, often involving ambition and perseverance.

to realize

Signifies making something a reality or achieving a goal that was once just an idea.

to deliver on

Emphasizes meeting expectations or producing promised results.

to execute

Implies a formal and precise implementation of a plan or order, common in business and technical contexts.

to implement

Focuses on putting a plan or system into operation, often on a large scale.

to satisfy

Focuses on meeting a requirement, need, or expectation.

to make good on

Highlights the act of honoring a promise or commitment.

to bring about

Indicates causing something to happen or to exist.

FAQs

How can I use "to fulfil" in a sentence?

You can use "to fulfil" to describe the act of completing a task, obligation, or promise. For instance, "The project aims "to fulfil" the needs of the community" or "She worked hard "to fulfil" her potential".

What are some alternatives to "to fulfil"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to accomplish", "to achieve", "to execute", or "to satisfy". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "to fulfil" and "to fulfill"?

"To fulfil" is the British English spelling, while "to fulfill" is the American English spelling. Both are correct, but it's important to be consistent within your writing. Here, Ludwig follows British spelling.

When is it more appropriate to use "to fulfil" rather than "to complete"?

"To fulfil" often implies satisfying a requirement, promise, or expectation, while "to complete" simply means to finish something. For example, you might "complete" a puzzle, but you "fulfil" a duty or obligation. "To fulfil" carries a stronger sense of meeting a specific need or standard.